Apparatuses, systems, and methods for inhibiting the removal of cable from conduit

ABSTRACT

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for securing one or more wires or cables relative to a conduit, for example, an underground conduit, an above ground conduit, or a conduit disposed in a building. The inhibiting device can hinder or prevent the removal of such wires or cables from the conduit by compressing the wires or cables between a clamp and a portion of the inhibiting device and/or conduit at a location that is not co-axial with a central axis of the conduit. As a result, a resistive frictional load is applied to the wires or cables which has a vector generally parallel and opposite to a removal force and a vector generally perpendicular to the removal force. In some embodiments, the inhibiting device can include a bolt, fabric, nylon, polymer, or compression type clamp. In some embodiments, a system can include a plurality of clamps which are transversely and axially separated.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/060,096, filed on Jun. 9, 2008, and of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/107,399, filed on Oct. 22, 2008,each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention is generally related to inhibiting the removal of cableor wire from a conduit. More particularly, embodiments of the presentinvention pertain to apparatuses, systems and methods for applying arestraining load to one or more wires or cables resulting in theprevention of unwanted theft or removal of such wires or cables from theconduit.

2. Background and Description of Related Art

Wire and cable are widely used for the communication of signals. Wirecan be formed from different materials such as metals, plastics, orceramics, each of which are particularly suited for the efficienttransmission of different signals, e.g. metal conducts electricalsignals, glass conducts light signals, etc. Although a cable generallycontains numerous individual strands of wires, some cables can include asingle strand of wire. While this disclosure will particularly refer tocables comprising multiple metal wires, given its importance in thecontext of contemporary applications, it is to be appreciated that theinstant invention may also be useful for hindering removal of wires orcables made from other well-known materials or materials yet to bediscovered or widely used in industry.

A common metal used in the manufacture of electrical wire is copper. Asthe market value of copper and other metals used for the manufacture ofwire increases, the rate of wire theft also tends to increase. Stolenwire can be redeployed in another application, or most commonly, sold asraw material in the original or a modified form for a profit.Unfortunately, due to the ease of access to electrical wires, the easeof processing the wire to a different form, and the difficulty intracking the metal origin, this is a very difficult crime to prevent andsolve.

One easily accessible source of wire for wire theft are electrical pullboxes which are commonly utilized in most communities in the UnitedStates and throughout the world. Electrical pull boxes generally have abox-like configuration with a removable lid and one or more conduitentry points to receive wire into the inner chamber defined by the wallsand lid of the pull box. The typical electrical pull box may beconfigured to receive wire into the chamber through one or more sides ofthe pull box and allows wire to exit the chamber through one or more ofthe sides. The incoming wires can be connected to the outgoing wires inthe chamber. In the typical configuration, the incoming and outgoingwires are disposed in appropriately configured and sized conduits toprotect the wire from exposure to the elements and to reduce thelikelihood of damage or other mishap which may cause a disruption in thetransmission.

Pull boxes are attractive targets for thievery since they are typicallylocated in areas that can be accessed discretely. Since the wires aregenerally free, i.e. unsecured within the pull box or conduit, they canbe removed relatively easily; all the thief has to do is to take thepull box lid off, cut the wires at their connection and then pull on thewires to remove them from the conduit.

Another target of wire theft is wires or cables which are disposedwithin a tubular conduit. The conduit provides protection to the wiresor cables within the conduit from the elements and the surroundingenvironment. In some examples, the conduit may be placed undergroundwhile in other examples the conduit may be disposed above ground. In yetother examples, the conduit may be disposed inside portions of abuilding, such as in the rafters, basement, or between the walls. Insome implementations, the conduit may have a significantly long length,for example over one hundred meters. Sometimes, then, the conduit maycomprise multiple sections of conduit that are connected end to end.

Underground wire is typically stolen by a thief grasping an end of thewire or cable by hand and pulling it from the conduit. In otherexamples, underground wire can be stolen by first attaching one end ofthe wire or cables to a traction device such as the tow-bar of asufficiently powerful vehicle. The vehicle is usually driven away,pulling the cable in an axial direction and removing it from theconduit. Frequently such thefts are carried out on newly laid cables, orcables that have been partially laid such that an end is easilyaccessible. Nonetheless, when the wires are not easily accessible, thethief may dig toward the underground wire conduit in order to free awire end to allow for removal as described above.

Wire theft represents a sizable cost both to the owner and to society atlarge. To the owner, in addition to the cost of replacing the wire,there is additional labor and equipment costs associated with installingthe replacement wire. These costs can run into the hundreds of dollars,and in some instances, thousands of dollars. To a society, theunauthorized removal of wire may disrupt community power,communications, etc. It can also result in an increased risk of harm tothe person or property of those affected by the disruption. Further,these disruptions may lead to a general reduction in the productivityand well-being of the society.

Over the years, various devices have been developed to deter or preventtheft of wire or cable from a conduit. For instance, U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2007/0020974 to Carlson discloses a tamperresistant plug configured to prevent unauthorized persons from pullingwires out of a conduit. Further in the art, WIPO Patent Publication No.02/073762 to Theron, et al., discusses a method of combating the theftof an underground cable in which there is secured to the outside surfaceof a cable, at spaced intervals along the length thereof, a series ofobstructive elements, each of which, engages the outer surface of thecable either frictionally or physically. However, the devices disclosedin each of these references are inadequate in that they apply retentionforce in the same direction as the removal force. As such, when aremoval force in the axial direction exceeds the retention force, thewire or cable may be removed.

Therefore, there is a need for apparatuses, systems and methods that caneffectively and economically restrain or hinder the rapid removal of oneor more wires or cables within a conduit, thus deterring theft of suchwires or cables.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses, systems andmethods for inhibiting the removal of an axially disposed device.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus can include aclamp at least partially enclosed in a clamp guide, the clamp guidehaving an opening for axially receiving the device therein. Theapparatus can frictionally compress the device between the clamp and aninner surface of one of the group consisting of the clamp guide, theconduit, and combinations thereof. The clamp can be secured to the clampguide by a securing mechanism.

In some implementations, in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention, a proximal edge of a clamp can compress the cable ata location where the axis of movement of the clamp substantiallyintersects a vector running generally perpendicular from the centralaxis of the conduit towards the securing mechanism. In some examples,and without limitation, the clamp can be a rigid fastener. In otherexamples, the clamp can be a flexible material having a high tensilestrength. In other examples, the clamp can include a flexible portionand a rigid portion. In other implementations in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, a distal end of the clamp cancompress the cable at a location where the axis of movement of the clampsubstantially intersects a vector running generally perpendicular fromthe central axis of the conduit away from the securing mechanism. Insome examples, and without limitation, the clamp can have a distal endcomprising a deformable or compressible material.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a system for inhibitingthe removal of a linear device can include: a first inhibiting meansengaged with a first section of the conduit, wherein the firstinhibiting means is capable of axially receiving the linear device; asecond inhibiting means engaged with a second section of the conduitwherein the second inhibiting means is capable of axially receiving thelinear device; and a coupling means engaged with the first inhibitingmeans and the second inhibiting means. Each of the first and the secondinhibiting means can frictionally press the device against an innerportion of one of the group consisting of the first inhibiting means,the second inhibiting means, the coupling means, the first section ofthe conduit, the second section of the conduit, and combinationsthereof.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method of inhibiting theremoval of a device axially disposed within a clamp guide can includethe step of compressing the axially disposed device between (i) amovable clamp at least partially enclosed within the clamp guide and(ii) an inner surface of one of the group consisting of the clamp guide,a conduit engaged with the clamp guide, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method of inhibiting theremoval of a linear device axially disposed within a conduit can includethe steps of: engaging a first inhibiting device to the conduit, theinhibiting device comprising a body, a clamp, and a securing mechanism,wherein the body has an opening for axially receiving the linear devicetherein; compressing the linear device between the clamp and an innersurface of one of the group consisting of the body, the conduit, andcombinations thereof; and causing the securing mechanism to prevent theclamp from moving with respect to the body. In some implementations, themethod can further include the step of engaging a second inhibitingdevice to the first, where the inhibiting devices can be transverselyand/or axially separated relative to a central axis of the conduit.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forinhibiting the removal of an axially disposed device can include: ahousing for engaging a conduit and receiving the axially disposeddevice, the housing enclosing at least one movable clamp capable offrictionally compressing the axially disposed device; and a mechanismfor securing the position of the clamp with respect to the housing.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forpreventing the removal of a wire axially disposed in a housing caninclude a movable clamp at least partially enclosed in the housing and alock to fix the position of the clamp with respect to the housing,wherein the clamp is configured to frictionally compress the wireagainst an inner surface of the housing.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a housing with afirst end for engaging with a first section of the conduit and a secondend for engaging with a second section of the conduit; a U-bolt at leastpartially enclosed in the housing, the U-bolt having a bent portion andtwo extended portions, wherein the extended portions protrude through atleast one opening in the housing; and at least two nuts for attachmentto the extended portions. The wire can be disposed in the housing andfrictionally compressed between the bent portion of the U-bolt and thehousing when the nuts are secured on the extended portions.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a housing with afirst end for engaging with a first section of the conduit and a secondend for engaging with a second section of the conduit; and a strap atleast partially enclosed in the housing, the strap having a first endengaged with a key disposed within a lock, wherein the key comprises agear rack and the lock comprises a ratchet corresponding to the gearrack. The wire can be disposed in the housing and frictionallycompressed between the strap and the housing when the key is rotated inthe lock.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a housing with afirst end for engaging with a first section of the conduit and a secondend for engaging with a second section of the conduit; a bolt having afirst end inside the housing and a second end outside of the housing,wherein the first end has a deformable member attached thereto; a rollpin engaged with the bolt at a location inside of the housing; and alock nut engaged with the bolt at a location outside the housing. Thewire can be disposed in the housing and frictionally compressed betweenthe deformable member and the housing when the bolt is rotated withrespect to the roll pin.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a housing with afirst end for engaging with a first section of the conduit and a secondend for engaging with a second section of the conduit; and a nylon tiehaving a first end with an integrated gear rack protruding through afirst opening in the housing and a second end with an integrated ratchetprotruding through a second opening in the housing. The wire can bedisposed in the housing and frictionally compressed between the tie andthe housing when the gear rack is engaged with the ratchet.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a clamp comprisinga rigid portion, a strap with an integrated gear rack, and at least oneratchet; and a housing with a first end for engaging with a firstsection of the conduit and a second end for engaging with a secondsection of the conduit, wherein the housing has a cavity formed thereinfor receiving the rigid portion of the clamp. The wire can be disposedin the housing and frictionally compressed between the strap and thehousing when the gear rack is engaged with the ratchet.

In some embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus forrestraining a wire disposed in a conduit can include: a clamp comprisinga rigid portion, a strap with an integrated gear rack, and at least oneratchet; and a housing with a first end for engaging with a firstsection of the conduit and a second end for engaging with a secondsection of the conduit, wherein the housing has a cavity formed thereinfor receiving the rigid portion of the clamp. The wire can be disposedin the housing and frictionally compressed between the strap and therigid portion when the gear rack is engaged with the ratchet.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method for restraining awire disposed in a conduit can include the steps of: engaging a firstend of a housing with a first section of the conduit and engaging asecond end of the housing with a second section of the conduit, whereinthe housing has a cavity for receiving the wire between the first endand the second end; moving a U-bolt having a bent portion and twoextended portions, wherein the bent portion of the U-bolt is enclosed inthe housing and wherein the ends of the extended portions protrudethrough at least one opening in the housing; and tightening nutsattached to the extended portions of the U-bolt until the wire isfrictionally compressed between the bent portion of the U-bolt and thehousing.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method for restraining awire disposed in a conduit can include the steps of: engaging a firstend of a housing with a first section of the conduit and engaging asecond end of the housing with a second section of the conduit, whereinthe housing has a cavity for receiving the wire between the first endand the second end; engaging an integrated gear rack portion of a nylonstrap with an integrated ratchet portion of the nylon strap, wherein thegear rack portion protrudes through a first opening in the housing andthe ratchet portion protrudes through a second opening in the housing,the strap forming a loop inside the housing; and pulling the integratedrack portion through the ratchet portion until the wire is frictionallycompressed against the housing.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method for restraining awire disposed in a conduit can include the steps of: engaging a firstend of a housing with a first section of the conduit and engaging asecond end of the housing with a second section of the conduit, whereinthe housing can receive the wire between the first end and the secondend; engaging an integrated gear rack portion of a clamp with anintegrated ratchet portion of the clamp, wherein the integrated ratchetportion forms a loop and is at least partially passed through a rigidportion of the clamp; placing the rigid portion of the clamp in a cavityformed in the housing; and pulling the integrated rack portion throughthe ratchet portion until the wire is frictionally compressed againstone of the group consisting of the housing, the rigid portion, andcombinations thereof.

These and other objects, advantages, and features of the invention,together with the organization and manner of operation thereof, willbecome apparent from the following detailed description when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements havelike numerals throughout the several drawings described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus for hindering theremoval of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the exemplary apparatus ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 1,taken along the 3-3 lines.

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 1,taken along the 4-4 lines.

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary systemincorporating the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the exemplary system of FIG. 5 inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 6,taken along the 7-7 lines.

FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 6,taken along the 8-8 lines.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another exemplary system for hinderingthe removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 9,taken along the 10-10 lines.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another exemplary system for hinderingthe removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 11,taken along the 12-12 lines.

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary apparatusfor hindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary apparatusfor hindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary systemincorporating the exemplary apparatuses of FIG. 13 or 14 in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary apparatusfor hindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary systemincorporating the apparatus of FIG. 16 in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 17,taken along the 18-18 lines.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary apparatus forhindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 19,taken along the 20-20 lines.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another exemplary system for hinderingthe removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 21,taken along the 22-22 lines.

FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary system forhindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 23,taken along the 24-24 lines.

FIG. 25 is a partially exploded perspective view of another system forhindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a partially exploded perspective view of another exemplaryapparatus and system for hindering the removal of a wire or cable from aconduit in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 26,taken along the 27-27 lines.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an exemplary apparatus for hinderingthe removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 28,taken along the 29-29 lines.

FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 28,taken along the 30-30 lines.

FIG. 31 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary apparatus forhindering the removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is another cross sectional view of the exemplary apparatus ofFIG. 31.

FIG. 33 is a cross sectional view of an exemplary clamp in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a cross sectional view of another exemplary clamp inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another exemplary system for hinderingthe removal of a wire or cable from a conduit in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary system of FIG. 35,taken along the 36-36 lines.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The invention, in its various aspects, will be explained in greaterdetail below. While the invention will be described in conjunction withseveral exemplary embodiments, the exemplary embodiments themselves donot limit the scope of the invention. Similarly, the exemplaryembodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like orsimilar reference characters designate like or corresponding partsthroughout the several views and examples, do not limit the scope of theexemplary embodiments and/or of the invention. Rather the invention, asdefined by the claims, may cover alternatives, modifications, and/orequivalents of the exemplary embodiments. It is to be appreciated thatalthough the invention is described in conjunction with inhibiting theremoval of a cable from a conduit, some embodiments of the inventionalso contemplate inhibiting the removal of one or more individual wires.It is also to be appreciated that some embodiments of the inventioncontemplate inhibiting the removal of other linear structures or devicesthat may be axially disposed within a conduit. For example, someembodiments of the present invention may also contemplate hindering theremoval of copper tubing from conduits. Thus, it is to be appreciatedthat, for the sake of convenience and simplicity, the terms “wire”,“cable”, “cord”, “string”, “line”, “wiring”, “tubing”, and “linearstructure” may generally be used interchangeably herein, but aregenerally also given their art-recognized meanings.

An Exemplary Apparatus for Inhibiting the Removal of Cable from Conduit

Referring to the drawings, and specifically to FIGS. 1-4, an exemplaryinhibitor 10 may comprise first end 11 and second end 12. First end 11and second end 12 may each be configured to engage a section of tubularconduit (for example, conduit 13A, 13B) in at least one opening therein.For example, and without limitation, first end 11 may have an openingtherein for engaging first conduit 13A and second end 12 may have asimilar and corresponding opening therein for engaging second conduit13B. In some embodiments, openings in first end 11 and openings insecond end 12 may be parallel relative to each other such that conduit13A is coaxial with conduit 13B. In some embodiments, openings in firstend 11 and second end 12 may be angled relative to each other such thatconduit 13A is angled relative to conduit 13B. For example, and withoutlimitation, inhibitor 10 may provide for an elbow in a long run ofconduit sections by having a first end 11 oriented forty five degreeswith respect to second end 12. It is to be appreciated the otherrelative angles between the ends are also contemplated in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 1, first end 11 and second end 12may have circular openings for engaging a conduit. In some embodiments,the ends may have oval, square, rectangular or any other shape openingsthereof for engaging correspondingly shaped conduit. In someembodiments, the openings in first end 11 and second end 12 may not havethe same shape. For example, and without limitation, first end 11 caninclude a square shaped opening for engaging a square shaped conduit andopening 12 can include an oval shaped opening for engaging an ovalshaped conduit. It is to be appreciated that other shapes andcombinations thereof are also contemplated in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, conduit may engage ends 11 and 12 of inhibitor 10by a snap fit connection. In some embodiments, ends 11 and 12 may beconfigured to receive the conduit in a press, interference, or slidingfit. In some embodiments, the conduit can be secured to, and maintainedwith, the inhibitor by sealants or adhesives. For example, and withoutlimitation, pipe glue may be applied to the interface between theconduit and openings in end 11 and/or end 12 for permanently fixing theconduit therein. In other examples, a sealant ring such as an O-Ring maybe disposed in the interface between the conduit and the openings. Insome embodiments, a variety of mechanical fasteners such as screws,bolts, hooks, loops or rivets may be used to secure the inhibitor andthe conduit. It is to be appreciated that securing the conduit to theinhibitor serves not only to increase the mechanical stability but alsoto prevent water, earth, and other materials from seeping into theconduit and degrading the cable or wires therein. It is to beappreciated that other fastening and securing means are contemplated inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Referring now to the exemplary apparatus as illustrated in FIG. 2,inhibitor 10 may comprise a number of subcomponents. In someembodiments, inhibitor 10 may include clamp guide 22 for engagingconduit (not shown) through openings in first and second ends and a slotfor receiving clamp 30. In some embodiments in accordance with thepresent invention, clamp 30 may be a rigid fastener. For example, andwithout limitation, clamp 30 may be a U-Bolt, J-Bolt, V-Bolt, M-Bolt,L-Bolt, or any other bent fastener. In some embodiments, and as will bediscussed more fully below, the clamp may comprise a fabric material orwebbing or a compression member.

In some embodiments, clamp 30 may have securing features and inhibitor10 may additionally include devices having complementary securingfeatures. In some embodiments, clamp 30 may have at least one threadedend for engaging a corresponding securing mechanism 37. For example,securing mechanism 37 may have threaded features that are sized andconfigured to engage with complementary threaded features of clamp 30.In other examples, the clamp may have a plurality of registers forengaging with one or more pins. It is to be appreciated that othersecuring features and combinations thereof are contemplated inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Inhibitor 10 may further include washer 35 for distributing a load ofclamp 30. In some embodiments, inhibitor 10 may include a seal 33 forsecuring the interface between washer 35 and clamp guide 22. In someembodiments, seal 33 can be formed of a deformable or compressiblematerial which may be compressed between washer 35 and clamp guide 22 soas to seal the slotted opening in clamp guide 22 wherein clamp 30 can bedisposed. In some embodiments, each of washer 35 and seal 33 may beconfigured with openings for receiving portions of clamp 30.

While a preferred embodiment includes a clamp 30 and hexagonal securingmechanism 37, it is to be appreciated that other clamping and securingmechanisms may be provided in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2,securing mechanism 37 may be a hexagonal fitting configured to beengaged by a socket or box-end wrench. However, in some examples, andwithout limitation, the securing mechanism may be engaged by a driveshaft that is rotated by a motor or engine. In use, securing mechanism37 may be secured over threaded portions of clamp 30 and rotated inrelation thereto until washer 35 is sealed against a top portion ofclamp guide 22 by seal 33. The relative motion between threaded securingmechanism 37 and threaded clamp 30 causes movement of the clamp 30within clamp guide 22 in the direction towards securing mechanism 37. Itis to be appreciated that other means of moving the clamp relative tothe clamp guide are contemplated in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention. For example, the clamp may be coupled to ahydraulically or pneumatically driven piston.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 4, and in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, a distal portion of clamp 30 mayinitially be positioned in cavity 29 of clamp guide 22 such that device36 (for convenience, and without limitation, hereafter “cable” 36) maybe positioned between a proximal portion of clamp 30 and a portion ofclamp guide 22. By imparting relative and rotational movement onsecuring mechanism 37, clamp 30 can be moved towards an inside portionof clamp guide 22, thereby pressing cable 36 between clamp 30 andportion 28 of clamp guide 22. In some embodiments, portion 28 of clampguide 22 can be flush with conduit 13A and or conduit 13B such thatthere are no sharp edges which may pierce or cut cable 36. In someembodiments, portion 28 of clamp guide 22 can be rounded in a directionradially outward from a central axis of conduit 13 such that a portionof cable 36, when compressed by clamp 30, can protrude slightly pastinner portions 17A, 17B of the conduit. It is to be appreciated that theprotruding portion of the clamp guide can have other shapes and/orconfigurations in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

In some embodiments, portion 28 of clamp guide 22 may have aconfiguration such that cable 36 can also be pressed against one or moreinner surfaces, 17A, 17B, of conduit 13A, 13B, respectively. It is to beappreciated that, in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention, cable 36 may be secured against portion 28 of clamp guide 22,inner surfaces 17A, 17B of conduit 13A, 13B, respectively, andcombinations thereof. As discussed above, in some embodiments, portion28 of clamp guide 22 may be flush with inner surfaces 17A, 17B ofconduits 13A, 13B, respectively, and/or rounded such that cable 36 isnot damaged when placed in compression therewith. It is further to beappreciated that, and as discussed more fully below, an inhibitor inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention may furtherinclude a device body against a portion of which the cable can bepressed against.

As shown in the exemplary depiction in FIG. 4, and without limitation,cable 36 can see multiple forces when a tensile load (for example, aremoval force) is applied to it. Taking a central axis of the conduit asa frame of reference, for example and without limitation, the appliedtensile load can have (i) a vector generally in the direction of thecentral axis and (ii) a vector generally transverse to that axis. Inaddition, a normal load can be applied to cable 36 between clamp 30 andeither a portion 28 of clamp guide or a portion of an interior wall 17A,17B of conduit 13A, 13B, respectively. In reaction, a resistivefrictional load can be applied to cable 36 that will have a directionalvector generally parallel and opposite to the axial component of thetensile load applied to cable 36. The resistive frictional load may alsobe proportional to the coefficient of friction that is specific to thematerials used for construction of wire 36, clamp 30, clamp guide 22,and conduit 13.

In the case where the tensile load is applied as an attempt to removecable 36 from conduit 13 by overcoming the resistive loads imparted tocable 36 by inhibitor 10, it can be appreciated that removal will notoccur unless the axial component of the tensile force is sufficient toovercome the resistive frictional load. For a given tensile forceapplied to cable 36, the probability of cable 36 being removed isreduced if the tensile force in cable 36 has a larger transversecomponent than if the tensile load is entirely axial. It is believedthat this is true because the axial component of the removal force isinversely proportional to the transverse component, and thus, anincrease in the transverse component will cause a decrease in the axialcomponent. When the removal force has a lesser axial component, theresistive frictional load is more likely to inhibit the removal of thecable 36 from the inhibitor 10.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 4, clamp 30 may have axis ofmovement substantially perpendicular to a central axis of the sectionsof conduit. However, in some embodiments, the inhibitor can beconfigured such that the clamp has an axis of movement other thanperpendicular to a central axis of the sections of the conduit. It isbelieved that when clamp 30 moves about an axis that is notperpendicular to a central axis of the sections of conduit 13, aretention force may be applied to cable 36 by clamp 30 which has avector generally opposite to that of a force which may be imparted oncable 36 during a theft attempt. As such, the reactive loads will tendto place the clamp 30 in compression rather than in bending, which maybe a condition that is less likely to result in failure of theinhibitor.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of clamp guide 22 may also serve toanchor inhibitor 10 within the surrounding medium. For example, andwithout limitation, inhibitor 10 may be buried underground along withsections of the conduit and backfilled with earth. In some embodiments,clamp guide 22 may be configured to protrude in a radial directionsufficiently beyond that of conduit 13. When a removal load is appliedto cable 36 that has been secured in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention, the protruding portions of clamp guide 22 willengage the surrounding medium and supply reactive loads to furtherprevent removal of cable 36. Thus, in some embodiments, clamp guide 22can be formed with significant surface area so as to increase oppositionwith the surrounding medium thereby increasing the retention loadapplied to inhibitor 10. In some embodiments, anchoring features may beassociated with other outer surfaces of the inhibitor. For example, andwithout limitation, anchors may be spade shaped protrusions that areeffective at engaging the surrounding earth to resist motion. In otherexamples, anchors may be protrusions with circular, rectangular,elliptical, or non-geometrically shaped cross sections sufficient toengage the earth. It is to be appreciated that the clamp guide maycomprise various other shapes, sizes, configurations, and featuressuitable for engaging with the surrounding medium in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 10 may be configured in a way such thatthe coefficient of friction is increased between (i) cable 36 and (ii)clamp 30, portion 28 of clamp guide 22, or inner surfaces 17A, 17B ofconduits 13A, 13B. By increasing the coefficient of friction, inhibitor10 may be more effective in hindering removal of cable 36. In someembodiments, the coefficient of friction may be increased by selectionof the type, roughness, or geometry of material used. For example, andwithout limitation, a layer of vulcanized rubber may be affixed to aportion of clamp 30 which contacts cable 36. In other examples, a layerof vulcanized rubber may be affixed to portion 28 of clamp guide 22 orto inner surfaces 17A, 17B of conduits 13A, 13B. In yet other examples,clamp 30, portion 28 of clamp guide 22, or inner surfaces 17A, 17B ofconduits 13A, 13B may have a roughened surface or have a tacky substancesuch as a natural or synthetic oil or adhesive affixed thereto. It is tobe appreciated that other means of increasing a coefficient of frictionwith respect to the cable are contemplated in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that a variety of materials and combinationsthereof may be used to form the components of the inhibitor inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In someembodiments, metal or polymers having relatively high stiffness may beused. For example, and without limitation, one, a plurality, or allcomponents of the inhibitor may be formed of steel, cast iron, aluminum,or moldable plastic. In some embodiments, components upon which the mostforce is imparted may comprise materials having high stiffness andcomponents upon which lesser force is imparted may comprise materialshaving lower stiffness. For example, and without limitation, clamp 30,securing mechanism 37, and washer 35 may comprise cast iron or steelwhile clamp guide 22 may comprise moldable plastic.

An Exemplary System for Inhibiting the Removal of Cable from Conduit

In some embodiments, a system can include one inhibitor distributedalong a length of conduit run. In some embodiments, a system can includeat least two inhibitors distributed along a length of a conduit runwhich contains at least one cable 36. Referring now to the exemplaryillustrations of FIGS. 5 to 8, and without limitation, two inhibitors10A, 10B may be placed between sections of conduit. First inhibitor 10Amay be configured to engage a first section of conduit 13A through anopening in first end 11A. In some examples, and without limitation, thesections of conduit can be welded, pressed, cast, or glued to thesections of conduit. A second section of conduit 13B can be disposedbetween and engaged by openings in first inhibitor 10A (for example,opening in second end 10A) and second inhibitor 10B (for example,opening in first end 11B). In some embodiments, and as illustrated,second inhibitor 10B may further be adapted to engage an adapter (forexample, and without limitation, coupler 14) through an opening insecond end 12B. Coupling 14 can further be adapted to engage thirdsection of conduit 13C. In other examples, third section of coupling 13Ccan be engaged directly to second inhibitor 10B without the use ofcoupling 14. It is to be appreciated that various combinations ofinhibitors, conduit and couplers are contemplated in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention. For example, and withoutlimitation, adapters may engaged both first end 11A of first inhibitor10A and second end 12B of second inhibitor 10B.

In some embodiments, the first and second ends of the inhibitor can beconfigured in parallel. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 6, aparallel configuration of first end 11A and second end 12A results inthe first section of conduit 13A and the second section of conduit 13Bbeing coaxial relative to each other. However, it is to be appreciatedthat the first and second ends can be at any angle relative to eachother in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Forexample, and without limitation, inhibitor 10A may have first and secondends which are angled thirty degrees relative to each other. Such aconfiguration would result in conduit sections 13A and 13B being angledby thirty degrees relative to each other. In other examples, inhibitor10A may have first and second ends which are angled, forty-five, sixty,ninety or one hundred and twenty degrees relative to each other.

In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 7, one or moreinhibitors may be transversely separated by a relatively short distance.For example, and without limitation, inhibitors 10A and 10B may beseparated by ten inches. In other examples, inhibitors 10A and 10B maybe separated by five inches. The separation distance of the inhibitorsmay be selected corresponding to, among other things, the thickness andcharacteristics of the cable and internal dimensions of the inhibitorsand/or the conduit.

In some embodiments, a plurality of transversely separated inhibitorsmay also be axially separated relative to a central axis of theconduits. For example, and without limitation, first inhibitor 10A maybe configured to be about one hundred and eighty degrees out of phasewith second inhibitor 10B. In other examples, four inhibitors can beconfigured to be about ninety degrees out of phase with each other. Inyet other examples, a system can have (i) two inhibitors that are onehundred and eighty degrees out of phase with each other and (ii) a thirdinhibitor that is ninety degrees out of phase with the first two. It isto be appreciated that in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention, a system can have any number of inhibitors with anyangle of axial separation, including but not limited to twelveinhibitors with thirty degrees of separation, eight inhibitors withforty five degrees of separation, etc.

It is to be appreciated that the transverse and/or axial separation ofthe inhibitors may be selected corresponding to the internal dimensionsof the conduit and/or clamp guides and the maximum angular bend that maybe tolerated by the cable. Referring to the example of FIG. 7,inhibitors 10A and 10B can be selected with a transverse and axialseparation such that cable 36, when brought into compression by clamps30A and 30B does not deform more than the maximum rated angular bend. Insome examples, and without limitation, if (i) the inhibitors areconfigured with an axial separation of one hundred and eighty degrees,(ii) the cable can be bent with a maximum angle of B degrees, and (iii)the conduit has an internal diameter of D, then the transverseseparation S of the inhibitors should be greater than or equal to Ddivided by the tangent function of B. In other examples, and withoutlimitation, if (i) the inhibitors are configured with an axialseparation of ninety degrees, (ii) the cable can be bent with a maximumangle of forty five degrees, and (iii) the conduit has an internaldiameter of D, then the transverse separation S of the inhibitors shouldbe greater than or equal to D. In other examples, and withoutlimitation, if (i) the cable can be bent with a maximum angle of Bdegrees and (ii) the conduit has an internal diameter of D, then thetransverse separation S and axial separation A of the inhibitors can beselected such that S is greater than or equal to D times the sin squaredfunction of A/2 divided by the tangent function of B. Therefore, in someexamples where the cable can be bent a maximum of forty five degrees andthe conduit has a diameter of four inches, and without limitation, theinhibitors can have an axial separation of one hundred and eightydegrees and a transverse separation of greater than four inches. Inother examples, the inhibitors can have an axial separation of ninetydegrees and a transverse separation of greater than two inches. It is tobe appreciated that other transverse and axial separation distances arecontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

It is also to be appreciated that a wide range of different number ofinhibitors with different transverse and or axially separations may beused in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Forexample, and without limitation, a system can include three inhibitors:the first and second can be separated by a distance of ten inches andone hundred and twenty degrees; and the second and third can beseparated by a distance of four inches and ninety degrees. As shown inthe exemplary illustration of FIG. 7, the cumulative axial separation ofthe plurality of inhibitors can be one hundred and eighty degrees (e.g.,for the example where two inhibitors are axially separated by onehundred and eighty degrees. However, it is to be appreciated that somesystems in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention mayhave other cumulative axial separations. For example, and withoutlimitation, a system with three inhibitors each axially separated by tendegrees can have a cumulative axial separation of twenty degrees. Inother examples, a system with four inhibitors each axially separated byninety degrees can have a cumulative axial separation of three hundredand sixty degrees.

Another Exemplary Apparatus and System for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

In some embodiments of the present invention, an inhibitor may comprisea plurality of clamp guides and a device body disposed on a unitarypiece. Referring now to the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 9 and 10,and without limitation, inhibitor 110 can have a first end 111 forengaging a first section of conduit (not shown) and a second end 112 forengaging a second portion of conduit 13. In some embodiments, first end111 and or second end 112 can be configured to engage a second inhibitor(not shown) and/or a coupling feature. For example, and withoutlimitation, second end 112 may have a coupling feature for coupling withconduit 13. In other examples, both first end 111 and second end 112have such coupling features. In yet other examples, neither first end111 nor second end 112 have such coupling features.

Clamps 130A, 130B may be disposed within clamp guides 122A, 122B,respectively, and configured to press cable 36 against an inner surface132 of device body 120. In some embodiments, clamp guides 122A, 122Band/or body 120 may be formed of a metal or polymer with relatively highstiffness. In some examples, and without limitation, body 120 and clampguides 122A, 122B may comprise moldable plastic. In other examples, theymay both comprise cast iron, steel or aluminum. In some embodiments,clamp guides 122A, 122B and body 120 may be formed at the same time andof the same material. For example, clamp guides 122 and body 120 ofinhibitor 110 may be formed by injection molding. In some embodiments,clamp guides 122A, 122B and body 120 may be formed of differentmaterials. For example, clamp guides 122A, 122B may be formed oftempered steel and body 120 may be formed of cast iron. In theseexamples, clamp guides 122A, 122B may be welded, pressed, cast, glued,or otherwise fixedly attached to device body 120. It is to beappreciated that a variety of materials and combinations thereof may beused to form the components of the inhibitor in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

As shown in some exemplary illustrations, and without limitation,inhibitor 110 can have a first clamp guide 122A (and associated clamp130A) and a transversely separated second clamp guide 122B (andassociated clamp 130B) for inhibiting removal of cable 36 from conduit13. In some embodiments, the plurality of clamp guides may have the sameaxial configuration relative to a central axis of the conduits. In someembodiments, and as discussed above, the plurality of clamp guides maybe axially separated relative to a central axis of a conduit section. Asshown, the clamp guides may be configured to be about one hundred andeighty degrees out of phase with each other. It is further to beappreciated that, as above, in some embodiments and without limitation,the separation distance (or transverse separation) and rotational phase(or axial separation) of the clamp guides may be determined withreference to the maximum permissible angular displacement of cable 36,the interior dimensions of the clamp guides and/or the interiordimensions of the body. For example, and without limitation, if (i) thecable can be bent with a maximum angle of B degrees and (ii) the bodyhas an internal diameter of D, then the transverse separation S andaxial separation A of the inhibitors can be selected such that S isgreater than or equal to D times the sin squared function of A/2 dividedthe tangent function of B. In some examples, and without limitation, theclamp guides may be separated by a distance of ten inches and onehundred and eighty degrees out of phase from each other. In otherexamples, and without limitation, the clamp guides can be separated by adistance of three inches and one hundred and twenty degrees out of phasefrom each other. It is to be appreciated that any number of inhibitorsmay be separated by any transverse distance and axial distance inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, clamps 130A, 130B and inner surface 132 of devicebody 120 can be configured with an increased coefficient of frictionrelative to cable 36. For example, and without limitation, a layer ofvulcanized rubber can be affixed on a portion of clamp 130A and/or clamp130B or on inner surface 132. In other examples, the clamps or innersurface may have a roughened surface. It is to be appreciated that thereare many ways that the clamps and/or inner surface of the device bodymay be adapted in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

Another Exemplary Apparatus and System for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

In some embodiments of the present invention, an inhibitor may comprisea single clamp guide and a device body on a unitary piece. Asillustrated in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 11 and 12, inhibitor210B may comprise a single clamp guide 222B formed on body 220B anddisposed between first end 211B and second end 212B. In someembodiments, first end 211B and/or second end 212B may be configured toengage a conduit section 13. In other embodiments, one or both of firstend 211B and second end 212B may comprise an adaptive or couplingfeature (for example, and without limitation, an annular shoulder) forengaging conduit 13 or another inhibitor. For example, and withoutlimitation, one or both of first end 211B and second end 212B may beconfigured to engage another inhibitor 210A. In other examples,inhibitor 210A may have a first end 211A with no coupling feature (forengaging a conduit, not shown) and a second end 212A with a couplingfeature (for engaging second inhibitor 210B). As such, multipleinhibitors can be directly coupled together without the need for anintermediary section of conduit (in contrast to some exemplaryembodiments as illustrated in FIG. 7). In some embodiments (and althoughnot shown), first inhibitor 210A and second inhibitor 210B can beseparated by a section of conduit disposed between them. In someexamples, and without limitation, the inhibitors and/or sections ofconduit, can be welded together. In other examples, they may be pressed,cast, or glued together. It is to be appreciated that the ends of theinhibitor can have multiple configurations in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that a system in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention can comprise a plurality ofinhibitors. And in contrast to the exemplary embodiment as illustratedin FIGS. 5 to 7 (wherein the transverse separation distance between theclamps of the inhibitors can determined by the length of conduit section13B), the distance between clamp 230A of inhibitors 210A and clamp 230Bof inhibitor 210B can be determined by the length of ends 212A and 211B.For example, and without limitation, a system can be configured with (i)a distance of five inches between cavity 229A of clamp guide 222A andsecond end 212A of device body 220A and (ii) a distance of four inchesbetween cavity 229B of clamp guide 222B and first end 211B of devicebody 220B. In this example, when two such inhibitors are joinedtogether, for example by connecting first end 211B of second inhibitor210B to second end 212A of first inhibitor 210A, the separation distancebetween the clamps will be nine inches. It is to be appreciated that anynumber of inhibitors can be provided with any transverse separationdistance in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is further to be appreciated that in some embodiments, inhibitors210A and 210B can also be axially separated relative to a central axisof conduit 13. In some examples, and without limitation, first inhibitor210A can be coupled to second inhibitor 210B with a rotational phasedifference of about forty five degrees. In other examples, and as shown,first inhibitor 210A and second inhibitor 210B can be configured with arotational phase difference of one hundred and eighty degrees. In someembodiments, the determination of the rotational angle between two ormore coupled inhibitors can be made with reference to the internaldimensions of the conduit and/or clamp guides and the maximum angularbend that may be tolerated by the cable. For example, as above, andwithout limitation, if (i) the cable can be bent with a maximum angle ofB degrees and (ii) the conduit has an internal diameter of D, then thetransverse separation S and axial separation A of the inhibitors can beselected such that S is greater than or equal to D times the sin squaredfunction of A/2 divided the tangent function of B. Thus, in someexamples, if cable 36 can tolerate a maximum angular bend of thirtydegrees and the inside diameter of conduit 13 is six inches, inhibitors210A and 210B can have an axial separation of one hundred and eightydegrees and a transverse separation distance of greater than about tenand one half inches. In other examples, inhibitors 210A and 210B canhave an axial separation of sixty degrees and a transverse separationdistance of greater than about two and one half inches. It is to beappreciated that any number of inhibitors may be separated by anytransverse distance and any suitable axial rotation in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention.

An Exemplary Retrofit Apparatus for Inhibiting the Removal of a Cablefrom a Conduit

In conventional implementations, the conduit can be assembled aboveground by a construction crew. The crew may first assemble severalsections of conduit end to end and attach them together using pipe glue,fasteners, or other adhesive means. The entire run of conduit can thenbe placed underground in a cavity formed in the earth. Cabling may thenbe introduced in one end of the conduit run and mechanical force or airpressure can be used to push (or pull) the cable down through to theother end of the conduit run. The cavity formed in the earth can then bebackfilled.

Referring back to the exemplary system of FIGS. 5 through 8, it is to beappreciated that the sections of conduit are preferably securedtogether, and within openings in the inhibitor ends, prior to theconduit being placed in the earth. It is to be appreciated that if onewere able to splice an inhibitor into a portion of conduit that hasalready been placed in the earth, the cable would first need to bewithdrawn from that spliced portion so that the cable could be fedthrough the openings in the clamp guide and also be located between theclamp and a portion of the clamp guide. Because of these difficulties,it is another object of the present invention to provide a retrofitinhibitor for hindering the removal of cable that has already beeninstalled through a conduit.

Referring now to the exemplary apparatus of FIGS. 13 to 15, inhibitor310 can include a clamp guide 322, clamp 330, and securing mechanism337. In some embodiments, clamp 330 may be a rigid fastener havingsecuring features. For example, and without limitation, clamp 330 may bea U-Bolt, J-Bolt, V-Bolt, M-Bolt, or L-Bolt, having at least onethreaded end for engaging a securing mechanism. In some embodiments, thesecuring mechanism may have complementary securing features that aresized and configured to engage with the securing features of the clamp.For example, and without limitation, securing mechanism 337 can havecomplementary threads and an opening for engaging with a threaded end ofclamp 330.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 310 may further include washer 335 fordistributing a load of clamp 330 and securing mechanism 337. In someembodiments, inhibitor 310 may also include a seal 333 for securing theinterface between washer 335 and clamp guide 322. In some examples, andwithout limitation, seal 333 can be a deformable material which may becompressed between washer 333 and clamp guide 322 so as to seal theopening in clamp guide 322 wherein clamp 330 is disposed. In otherexamples, each of washer 335 and seal 333 may be configured withopenings for receiving portions of clamp 330.

In some embodiments of the present invention, clamp guide 322 maycomprise a number of subassembly components for circumscribing theconduit 13. For example, and without limitation, the clamp guide cancomprise a plurality of portions which may be secured together withattachment devices. As shown in the exemplary illustration of FIG. 14,and without limitation, clamp guide 322 can have a first portion 322′and a second portion 322″. The first and second portions may beconfigured to be secured together with attachment devices 327. In otherexamples, the clamp guide can include three portions that can be securedtogether with snap-fit connections. It is to be appreciated that clampguide 322 may comprise any number of portions in a variety of geometriesand configurations in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, and without limitation, both first portion 322′and second portion 322′ of clamp guide 322 can be configured with a onehundred and eighty degree arc. In other examples, first portion 322′ maybe configured to have two ninety degree arc sub-portions (not shown) andsecond portion 322″ can be configured to have a one hundred and eightydegree arc. It is to be appreciated that any number and configuration ofportions and sub-portions may be provided in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

It is also to be appreciated that when the subassembly components ofinhibitor 310 (and clamp guide 322) are assembled, inhibitor 310 canhave a shape and geometry substantially similar to that of exemplaryinhibitor 10 (of FIG. 1), exemplary inhibitor 110 (of FIG. 10),exemplary inhibitor 210A (of FIG. 12), or any other configuration withinthe scope of this invention. In some embodiments, the inhibitor caninclude a clamp, a securing mechanism, and a clamp guide configured suchthat, when a cable is disposed between a portion of the clamp and clampguide, the clamp and securing mechanism can be engaged so as to causethe cable to be pressed against a portion of the clamp guide and/or aninner portion of the conduit.

Referring to the exemplary illustration of FIG. 15, a portion of conduit13 carrying a cable 36 may be partially or fully cut to form an opening,the opening having a width sufficient for receiving clamp 330 therein.In some embodiments, first portion 322′ and second portion 322″ of clampguide 322 may be configured with geometries suitable for forming a tightfit around conduit 13. For example, and without limitation, conduit 13may have an outside diameter of six inches and clamp guide portions 322′and 322″ may be configured such that when they are secured together withattachment devices 327, an opening having a diameter of six inches isformed. In some embodiments, clamp guide 322 may also include a seal(not shown) configured to form a tight seal with conduit 13. In someembodiments, pipe glue or another adhesive can be placed at theinterface between clamp guide portions 322′, 322″ and conduit 13 forforming a tight connection. In some embodiments, and without limitation,the internal size of the opening in clamp guide 322 may be configured tobe slightly larger than the outside diameter of the conduit such that,when used in combination with a seal or some other type of deformableseal, a tight connection is formed. It is to be appreciated that othersized clamp guide portions may be used for other sized conduit sectionsin accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that in some retrofit applications, conduit 13can be fully or partially cut. In some embodiments, and referring to theexample of FIG. 15 when the conduit is partially cut, clamp 330 shouldhave a width that is not greater than the inside diameter of conduit 13so that clamp 330 can be positioned therein. In some embodiments, andreferring to the example where the conduit is fully cut, clamp 330 mayhave a width that is greater than the inside diameter of conduit 13.

It is to be appreciated that, as illustrated in the example of FIG. 15,cable 36 must be placed between a portion of clamp 330 and clamp guideportion 322″. Thus, during retrofit installation, clamp 330 must be“fished” around the already installed cable 36. However, depending onwhether conduit 13 is fully or partially cut, the dimensions of clamp330, and the amount of working space, it may be difficult to properlyposition clamp 330. Thus, in some embodiments the clamp may includesubassembly components.

In some embodiments, the clamp may include at least one clamp extensionconfigured for securely attaching to a rigid fastener. In someembodiments, the extensions may include securing features for engagingwith complementary securing features of a securing mechanism. Referringto the exemplary embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 14, and withoutlimitation, extensions 331′ and 331″ may have threaded features forcoupling to securing mechanism 337. In some examples, and withoutlimitation, a rigid fastener 331 may have relatively shorter threadedends to which extensions 331′ and 331″ may be fixed. In other examples,the rigid fastener may be a J-Bolt and one extension may be provided forattachment on the shorter end. In some embodiments, extensions 331′ and331″ may be fixedly attached to rigid fastener 331 by a snap fitconnection. However, it is to be appreciated that there are manyconfigurations of rigid fasteners and many means of attaching the rigidfasteners to the clamp extension(s) which are contemplated in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention. In some examples, andwithout limitation, rigid fastener 331 may be fished around cable 36 andthereafter one or more extensions 331′, 331″ may be secured to rigidfastener 331. In other examples, extension 331′ may be secured to rigidfastener 331 before being fished around cable 36, and thereafterextension 331″ may be secured to rigid fastener 331. It should furtherbe appreciated that the connection between the extensions and the rigidfastener must be strong enough to withstand (i) the normal load appliedto cable 36 between clamp 330 and a portion of clamp guide 322 and (ii)the axial component of the resistive load applied to cable 36 during aremoval attempt.

Another Exemplary Apparatus and System for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

In some embodiments, the inhibitor may include a clamp comprising aflexible material with a high tensile strength. Referring now to theexemplary illustrations of FIGS. 16 to 18, and without limitation, clamp430 may comprise a high-density fabric material. In other examples,clamp 430 can comprise nylon or other polymers. In other examples, clamp430 can comprise rope, a belt, or hemp. In yet other examples, clamp 430can comprise a thin coil of pliable metal such as aluminum. In otherexamples, clamp 430 can comprise a webbing. However, it is to beappreciated that other flexible materials are contemplated in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

Referring particularly to FIG. 16, in some embodiments, inhibitor 410may have a clamp guide 422 with a first 411 and second 412 end. Each offirst 411 and second 412 ends can be configured to engage a section ofconduit (not shown) or a coupler (not shown) in an opening therein. Insome embodiments, and without limitation, the conduit or the coupler mayengage the ends of the inhibitors by a snap fit, press, interference, orsliding fit connection. In some embodiments, the conduit may be securedto and maintained with the inhibitor by the addition of sealants oradhesives. For example, and without limitation, pipe glue may be appliedto the interface between conduit and openings in the ends of theinhibitors for permanently fixing the conduit therein. In otherexamples, a sealant ring such as an O-Ring may be disposed in theinterface between conduit and the openings. In some embodiments, avariety of mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, hooks, loops orrivets may be used to secure the inhibitor and the conduit. It is to beappreciated that there are many different means of engaging andmaintaining the inhibitor in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

In some embodiments, securing mechanism 437 may be fixedly attached toclamp guide 422. In some examples, and without limitation, securingmechanism 437 and seal 433 may have holes for permitting passage ofattachment devices 427. In some embodiments, attachment devices 427 mayhave threaded ends and clamp guide 422 may have appropriately positionedand sized threaded holes for receiving attachment devices 427. In someembodiments, attachment devices 427 and holes in clamp guide 422 mayform a snap-fit connection. It is to be appreciated that other means ofattaching the securing mechanism to the clamp guide are contemplated inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In someembodiments, securing mechanism 437 may be configured with a key 438 forattachment to one end of clamp 430. In some embodiments, key 438 canhave a hexagonal head that can be engaged with a socket or box-endwrench. However, it is to be appreciated that other configurations ofkeys and/or heads are contemplated in accordance with some embodimentsof the present invention.

In some embodiments, clamp guide 422 can include one or more slots, eachslot configured to receive portions of clamp 430. In some embodiments,inhibitor 410 may also include a seal 433 for securing the interfacebetween securing mechanism 437 and clamp guide 422. The seal may alsohave one or more openings which may correspond to the slots in the clampguide through which portions of the clamp can pass through. For example,and without limitation, seal 433 can be a rubberized material which maybe deformed between securing mechanism 437 and clamp guide 422 so as toform a tight seal. Similarly, in some embodiments, securing mechanism437 may also include one or more slots for receiving an end of clamp430.

In use, one end of clamp 430 can be placed through a slot in securingmechanism 437 and the other end of clamp 430 can be attached to key 438.As shown in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 14 and 16, key 438 maybe rotated so as to cause cable 36 to move towards and be pressedagainst a portion 428 of clamp guide 422 or an inner wall 17 of conduit13.

In some examples, and without limitation, the clamp may comprise azip-tie strap. For example, without limitation, and referring now toFIGS. 26 and 27, clamp 930A may comprise a nylon zip-tie. In someexamples, and without limitation, the clamp may comprise a nylon stripwith a first portion having an integrated gear rack and a second portionhaving an apparatus for negating reverse movement of the gear rack(e.g., an integrated ratchet). In some embodiments, clamp guide 922A caninclude one or more slots, each slot configured to receive portions ofclamp 930A. For example, and without limitation, clamp guide 922A mayhave a first slot for receiving an integrated ratchet 937A of clamp 930Aand a second slot for receiving an integrated gear rack 931A of theclamp. In some examples, and without limitation, the first slot forreceiving integrated ratchet 937A of the clamp can have dimensionssmaller than integrated ratchet 937A so as to prevent integrated ratchet937A from being pulled into the cavity of clamp guide 922A.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 910A may also include mechanism 935Afixedly attached by attachment devices 927 to clamp guide 922A. In someembodiments, inhibitor 910A may also include a seal 933A for securingthe interface between mechanism 935A and clamp guide 922A. For example,and without limitation, seal 933A can be a rubberized material which maybe deformed between mechanism 935A and clamp guide 922A so as to form atight seal. It is to be appreciated that mechanism 935A and/or seal 933Amay provide protection from the elements and surrounding environment.

In use, in some examples, and without limitation, integrated gear rackportion 931A of the clamp may be placed through a first slot in clampguide 922A. Integrated gear rack portion 931A can then be placed throughthe second slot in clamp guide 922A and engaged with integrated ratchetportion 937A. It is to be appreciated that by engaging the integratedgear rack with the integrated ratchet, the cable may be pulled towardsand be pressed against a portion of the clamp guide or an inner wall ofthe conduit section. In some embodiments, a slot may be provided inmechanisms 935A, 935B through which an end of the integrated gear rackportion of clamps 930A, 930B may pass. For example, mechanism 935B caninclude a slot through which integrated portion 931B of the clamp maypass. However, it is to be appreciated that in other embodiments, aftertightly pulling the integrated gear rack 931A through the integratedratchet 937A, any excess portion may be removed or relocated. Forexample, and without limitation, the excess may be cut off. In otherexamples, the excess portion may be located within a cavity of mechanism935.

It is further to be appreciated that in accordance with some embodimentsof the present invention, any of the previously identified embodiments(including but not limited to the multiple inhibitor systems, theunibody inhibitor systems, the transversely and axially separatedinhibitors, the retrofit embodiment, etc.), may be adapted to substitutea rigid fastener with a flexible material clamp. For example, andwithout limitation, clamp guide 422 can comprise multiple portions(similar to the multiple portions 322′ and 322″ of clamp guide 322 asillustrated in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 13 to 15) forretrofit-type applications.

Thus, in some embodiments, clamp guide 422 may comprise a number ofsubassembly components for circumscribing the conduit 13 in a retrofitfashion. Similar to the exemplary apparatus as illustrated in FIG. 14,and without limitation, clamp guide 422 can have a plurality ofportions, in a variety of geometries and configurations, which maysecured together with attachment devices. For example, and withoutlimitation, clamp guide 422 can be configured with two portions eachproviding a one hundred and eighty degree arc. In other examples, afirst portion may be configured to have two ninety degree arcsub-portions and a third portion with a one hundred and eighty degreearc. In some embodiments, the portions may be configured with geometriessuitable for forming a tight fit around conduit 13. In some embodiments,clamp guide 422 may also include a seal, pipe glue, or other adhesivefor forming a tight fit with conduit 13. During some retrofitinstallations, and without limitation, the flexible material clamp canbe “fished” around the already installed cable through a formed openingin the conduit, and the plurality of clamp guide portions can be securedtogether so as to circumscribe the conduit 13. It is to be appreciatedthat any number and configuration of portions and sub-portions may beprovided in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that a system in accordance with the presentinvention can comprise one or a plurality of inhibitors. Referring nowto the examples of FIGS. 17 and 18, a plurality of clamps 410A, 410B canbe transversely separated by sections of conduit (for example, andwithout limitation, conduit 13B). The clamps may also be axiallyseparated relative to a central axis of conduit. In some examples, andwithout limitation, first inhibitor 410A can be coupled to secondinhibitor 410B, have a rotational phase difference of about forty-fivedegrees, and be separated by a distance of about five inches. In otherexamples, and as shown, first inhibitor 410A and second inhibitor 410Bcan be configured with a rotational phase difference of one hundred andeighty degrees and separated by a distance of about ten inches. In someembodiments, the determination of the rotational angle between two ormore coupled inhibitors can be made with reference to the internaldimensions of the conduit and/or clamp guides and the maximum angularbend that may be tolerated by the cable. For example, as above, andwithout limitation, if (i) the cable can be bent with a maximum angle ofB degrees and (ii) the conduit has an internal diameter of D, then thetransverse separation S and axial separation A of the inhibitors can beselected such that S is greater than or equal to D times the sin squaredfunction of A/2 divided the tangent function of B. Thus, in someexamples, if cable 36 can tolerate a maximum angular bend of thirtydegrees and the inside diameter of conduit 13B is six inches, inhibitors410A and 410B can have an axial separation of one hundred and eightydegrees and a transverse separation distance of greater than about tenand one half inches. In other examples, inhibitors 410A and 410B canhave an axial separation of sixty degrees and a transverse separationdistance of greater than about two and one half inches. However, it isto be appreciated that any number of inhibitors may be separated by anytransverse distance and axial distance in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

Another Exemplary Apparatus for Inhibiting the Removal of a Cable from aConduit

As recited above, some embodiments of the present invention concernapparatuses including a rigid fastener, wherein a cable may be securedby imparting a “pulling” force on the bolt in a direction towards asecuring mechanism, causing the cable to be pressed between the bolt anda portion of a clamp guide. Other embodiments concern apparatusesincluding a flexible material, wherein a cable may be secured byimparting a “pulling” force on a portion of the material, also in adirection towards a securing mechanism, causing the cable to be pressedbetween the material and a portion of a clamp guide. In yet otherembodiments, and referring generally to the exemplary illustrations ofFIGS. 19 to 25, apparatuses may include a clamp having a compressionportion, and the cable can be secured by applying a “pushing” (ratherthan “pulling”) force on the bolt in a direction away from a securingmechanism.

Referring now specifically to the example of FIGS. 19 and 20, inhibitor510 may comprise a clamp 530 disposed within a clamp guide 522 having afirst 511 and second 512 end. In some embodiments, each of first 511 andsecond 512 ends can be configured to engage a section of tubular conduitor coupler (not shown) in an opening therein. As shown, the ends 511,512 may have circular openings, however, it is to be appreciated thatthe ends may have oval, square, rectangular, or any other shape openingsthereof for engaging a correspondingly shaped conduit or coupler. It isalso to be appreciated that the openings in first 511 and second 512 endmay not have the same shape.

Referring to FIG. 19, in some embodiments, and without limitation, theconduit or the coupler may engage the ends 511, 512 of the inhibitor 510by a snap fit, press, interference, or sliding fit connection. In someembodiments, the conduit may be secured to, and maintained with, theinhibitor by the addition of sealants or adhesives. For example, andwithout limitation, pipe glue may be applied to the interface betweenconduit and openings in the ends of the inhibitors for permanentlyfixing the conduit therein. In other examples, a sealant ring such as anO-Ring may be disposed in the interface between conduit and theopenings. In some embodiments, a variety of mechanical fasteners such asscrews, bolts, hooks, loops or rivets may be used to secure theinhibitor and the conduit. It is to be appreciated that there are manydifferent means of engaging and maintaining the inhibitor in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, openings in first end 511 and openings in secondend 512 may be parallel relative to each other. In some embodiments,openings in first end 511 and second end 512 may be angled relative toeach other such that a section of conduit or a coupler attached to end511 is angled with respect to a section of conduit or coupler attachedto end 512. For example, and without limitation, inhibitor 510 mayprovide for an elbow in a long run of conduit sections by having a firstend 511 oriented forty five degrees with respect to second end 512. Itis to be appreciated the other relative angles between the ends are alsocontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

In some embodiments, clamp guide 522 may have an extended portion 542defining a clamp guide cavity 549. In a preferred embodiment, the clampguide cavity 549 may have a shape that corresponds to a portion of clampguide 530. For example, and without limitation, extended portion 542 ofclamp guide 522 may be configured such that a portion of clamp 530 andclamp guide cavity 549 have a substantially similar cross sectionalarea. It is also to be appreciated that clamp 530 may be slidablyassociated with the clamp guide inner surface.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 510 can comprise an actuator 541 with acorresponding head 548. In some examples, and without limitation,actuator 541 can be fixedly attached to clamp 530. In some otherexamples, actuator 541 can be attached to clamp 530 by a snap fitconnection. In some other examples, actuator 541 and clamp 530 cancomprise a unitary piece. It is to be appreciated that movement of clamp530 within clamp guide 522 may be facilitated by actuator 541. Thus, insome embodiments, actuator 541 may have a securing features and aportion of clamp guide 522 may have complementary securing features. Forexample, and without limitation, actuator 541 may have threaded featuresand extended portion 542 may have complementary threaded features. Insome other examples, actuator 541 may have an integrated gear rack whileextended portion 542 has a complementary mechanism for negating thereverse movement of the gear rack (e.g., a ratchet). It is to beappreciated that other combinations of securing features arecontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. It is also to be appreciated that actuator 541 may comprisemultiple subassemblies. For example, and while not shown, a firstsection of actuator 541 may comprise a first end engaged with clamp 530.A second section of actuator 541 may have a first end configured to beengaged with a second end of the first section of actuator 541 and mayhave a second end to which head 548 is attached.

In some embodiments, actuator 541 and clamp guide 522 may be configuredin a screw-type configuration. For example, and without limitation,rotation of actuator 541 via head 548 (and relative to clamp guide 522)will produce relative motion between clamp guide 522 and the actuator541. Because, in some embodiments, actuator 541 can be attached to clamp530, the relative motion may cause clamp 530 to move relative toextended portion 542 of clamp guide 522. In some embodiments, head 548may be a hexagonal fitting that is engaged by a socket or box-endwrench. In some embodiments, head 548 may be a hexagonal socket that isengaged by an Allen-type wrench. In some embodiments, head 548 may beengaged by a drive shaft that is rotated by a motor or engine in orderto transmit an actuation motion to actuator 541. It is to be appreciatedthat other similar configurations of actuator 541, clamp guide 522, andhead 548 are contemplated in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

In some embodiments, actuator 541 and clamp guide 522 may be configuredin a gear rack-ratchet configuration. For example, and withoutlimitation, actuator 541 may move relative to clamp guide 522 byimparting downward force on head 548. In some embodiments, actuator 541can be a hydraulically or pneumatically driven piston capable ofimparting motion to the clamp 530. In some embodiments, actuator 541 andclamp 530 may be configured as a cam moving within extended portion 542.It is to be appreciated that other similar configurations of actuator541, clamp guide 522, and head 548 are contemplated in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 20, inhibitor 510 may alsocomprise one or more securing mechanisms for minimizing movement ofclamp 530. In some embodiments, securing mechanism 538 may be configuredto minimize movement of clamp 530. For example, and without limitation,securing mechanism 538 may be a threaded nut sized and configured tothread over threaded features of actuator 541. In other examples,securing mechanism 538 may be configured with ratchet-type features toengage with gear rack features of actuator 541 and to negate reversemovement of the gear rack feature. By fastening securing mechanism 538against extended portion 542 of clamp guide 522, tensile load may beprovided through actuator 541 and may also result in a locking effect toprevent motion of actuator 541. It is to be appreciated that securingmechanism 538 may comprise a separable element of inhibitor 510 or mayintegrated into one or more elements of inhibitor 510. For example, andwithout limitation, securing mechanism 538 may be integrated into aportion 542 of clamp guide 522. In other examples, and in the examplewhere actuator 541 is a hydraulically driven piston, securing mechanismmay be the hydraulic source itself. By application of pressure throughassociated hydraulic lines, clamp 530 may be locked in place. It is alsoto be appreciated that other securing mechanisms or combinations thereofare contemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, and without limitation, securing mechanism 538can be a cotter pin which is engaged with a component of inhibitor 510to resist motion of actuator 541 and thus clamp 530.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 510 can also include securing mechanism537 for minimizing movement of clamp 530. For example, and withoutlimitation, securing mechanism 537 can be a roll-pin associated withactuator 541 for resisting upward force resulting from the restrainingpressure between clamp 530 and portion 532 of clamp guide 522. It is tobe appreciated that inhibitors in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention can include any combinations of securingmechanisms. For example, an inhibitor can include a securing mechanismfor minimizing downward movement and/or a securing mechanism forminimizing upward movement.

When it is desired to secure a cable in accordance with some embodimentsof the present invention, clamp 530 may initially be positioned incavity 549 of clamp guide 522 such that a cable may be positionedbetween clamp 530 (and/or portion 550) and a portion 532 of clamp guide522. By causing imparting movement on actuator 541 relative to clampguide 522, clamp 530 may be urged towards an inside portion 532 of clampguide 522, thereby pressing the axially disposed device (forconvenience, and without limitation, referred to hereafter as “cable”)between clamp 530 and portion 532 of clamp guide 522.

As illustrated in the examples of FIGS. 19 and 20, clamp 530 may haveaxis of movement substantially perpendicular to a central axis of thesections of conduit that may be coupled to first 511 and/or second 512ends. However, in some embodiments, the inhibitor can be configured suchthat the clamp has an axis of movement other than perpendicular to acentral axis of the sections of the conduit. It is believed that whenclamp 530 moves about an axis that is not perpendicular to a centralaxis of the sections of conduit, a retention force may be applied to thecable by clamp 530 which has a vector generally opposite to that of aforce which may be imparted on the cable during a theft attempt. Assuch, the reactive loads will tend to place the clamp 530 in compressionrather than in bending, which may be a condition that is less likely toresult in failure of the inhibitor 510.

In some embodiments, clamp 530 may be a solid block having a shapesubstantially similar to extended portion 542 of clamp guide 522.However, it is to be appreciated that other clamp geometries arecontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, and without limitation, clamp 530 may comprise aU-Bolt, a J-Bolt, a Spade-Bolt, or an Eye-Bolt. It is to be appreciatedhowever, that the geometry of clamp 530 should be selected such that ithas a distal end with a geometry similar to that of a portion of theinside surface 532 of the inhibitor 510.

In some embodiments, clamp 530 may have a portion 550 that comprises adeformable material having an increased coefficient of friction. Forexample, and without limitation, portion 550 may comprise a layer ofvulcanized rubber. In other examples, portion 550 can have a roughenedsurface or may have a tacky substance such as natural or synthetic oilor adhesive applied thereto. In some embodiments, portion 532 of clampguide 522 may also have a layer of vulcanized rubber or a tackysubstance applied thereto or may have a roughened surface. It is to beappreciated that by increasing the coefficient of friction, inhibitor510 may be more effective in hindering removal of a cable.

It is to be appreciated that a variety of materials and combinationsthereof may be used to form the components of the inhibitor inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In someembodiments, metal or polymers having relatively high stiffness may beused. For example, and without limitation, one, a plurality, or allcomponents of inhibitor 510 may be formed of steel, cast iron, aluminum,or moldable plastic. In some embodiments, components upon which the mostforce is imparted may comprise materials having high stiffness andcomponents upon which lesser force is imparted may comprise materialshaving lower stiffness.

In some embodiments, the dimensions of clamp guide 522 may also serve toanchor inhibitor 510 within the surrounding medium. For example, andwithout limitation, inhibitor 510 may be buried underground along withportions of the conduit and backfilled with earth. In some embodiments,clamp guide 522 may be configured to protrude in a radial directionsufficiently beyond that of sections of conduit. When a removal load isapplied to a cable that has been secured in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention, the protruding portions of clampguide 522 can engage the surrounding medium and supply reactive loads tofurther prevent removal of the cable. Thus, in some embodiments, clampguide 522 can be formed with significant surface area so as to increaseopposition with the surrounding medium thereby increasing the retentionload applied to inhibitor 510. In some embodiments, anchoring featuresmay be associated with an outer surface of inhibitor 510. For example,anchors may be spade shaped protrusions that are effective at engagingthe surrounding earth to resist motion. In other examples, anchors maybe protrusions with circular, rectangular, elliptical, ornon-geometrically shaped cross sections sufficient to engage the earth.It is to be appreciated that the clamp guide may comprise various othershapes, sizes, configurations, and features suitable for engaging withthe surrounding medium in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

Another Exemplary Apparatus and System for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

In some embodiments, an inhibitor may comprise a plurality of clampguides and a device body disposed on a unitary piece. Referring now tothe exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 21 and 22, inhibitor 610 can have afirst end 611 for engaging a first section of conduit (not shown) and asecond end 612 for engaging a second section of conduit 13. In someembodiments, first end 611 and or second end 612 can be configured toengage a second inhibitor (not shown) and/or a coupling feature. Forexample, and without limitation, second end 612 may have a couplingfeature for coupling with conduit 13. In some embodiments, both firstend 611 and second end 612 have such coupling features. In someembodiments, neither first end 611 nor second end 612 have such couplingfeatures.

Clamps 630A, 630B may be disposed within clamp guides 622A, 622B,respectively, and configured to press cable 36 against an inner surface632 of device body 120. In some embodiments, clamp guides 622A, 622Band/or body 620 may be formed of a metal or polymer with relatively highstiffness. In some examples, and without limitation, body 620 and clampguides 622A, 622B may comprise moldable plastic. In other examples, theymay both comprise cast iron. In some embodiments, clamp guides 622A,622B and body 620 may be formed at the same time and of the samematerial. For example, and without limitation, clamp guides 622 and body620 of inhibitor 610 may be formed by injection molding. In someembodiments, clamp guides 622A, 622B and body 620 may be formed ofdifferent materials. For example, and without limitation, clamp guides622A, 622B may be formed of tempered steel and body 620 may be formed ofcast iron. In those examples, clamp guides 622A, 622B may be welded orotherwise fixedly attached to device body 620. It is to be appreciatedthat clamp guides 622A, 622B may also be pressed, cast, or glued todevice body 620. It is also to be appreciated that a variety ofmaterials and combinations thereof may be used to form the components ofthe inhibitor in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

As shown in the exemplary illustrations, inhibitor 610 can have a firstclamp guide 622A (and associated clamp 630A) and a transverselyseparated second clamp guide 622B (and associated clamp 630B) forinhibiting removal of cable 36 from conduit 13. In some embodiments, theplurality of clamp guides may have the same axial configuration relativeto a central axis of the sections of conduit. In some embodiments, theplurality of clamp guides may be axially separated relative to a centralaxis of a conduit section. As illustrated, and without limitation, theclamp guides 622A and 622B may be configured to be about one hundred andeighty degrees out of phase with each other. It is further to beappreciated that, in some embodiments, the separation distance (ortransverse separation) and rotational phase (or axial separation) of theclamp guides may be determined with reference to the maximum permissibleangular displacement of cable 36, the interior dimensions of the clampguides and/or the interior dimensions of the body. In some examples, andwithout limitation, the clamp guides may be separated by a distance often inches and one hundred and eighty degrees out of phase from eachother. In other examples, and without limitation, three clamp guides canbe separated by a distance of three inches and one hundred and twentydegrees out of phase from each other. It is to be appreciated that anynumber of inhibitors may be separated by any transverse distance andaxial distance in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

In some embodiments, clamps 630A, 630B and inner surface 632 of devicebody 620 can be configured with an increased coefficient of friction.For example, and without limitation, a layer of vulcanized rubber can beaffixed on a portion of clamp 630A and/or clamp 630B or on inner surface632. In other examples, the clamps or inner surface may have a roughenedsurface. It is to be appreciated that there are many ways that theclamps and/or inner surface of the device body may be adapted inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

In use, it can be seen that removal of cable 36 can be inhibited by thecompression thereof against inner portion 632 of device body 620 byclamps 630A, 630B. By causing actuators 641A, 642B to move relative toclamp guides 622A, 622B (for example, and without limitation, byrotating heads 648A, 648B), clamps 630A, 630B will cause cable 36 to bepressed against portion 632. Once firmly in place, securing mechanisms637A, 637B, 638A, 638B can be activated so as to prevent movement ofclamps 630A, 630B. It is to be appreciated that any number of clampguides (and thus clamps), with any axial separation, can be provided ona single unitary housing in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

As shown in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 21 to 22, cable 36 maysee multiple forces when a tensile load (for example, a removal force)is applied to it. Taking a central axis of the sections of conduit 13 asa frame of reference, the applied tensile load may have (i) a vectorgenerally in the direction of the central axis and (ii) a vectorgenerally transverse to that axis. In addition, there may be a normalload applied to cable 36 between clamp 630A and a portion 632 of clampguide. In reaction, there can be a resistive frictional load applied tocable 36 that will have a directional vector generally parallel andopposite to the axial component of the tensile load applied to cable 36.The resistive frictional load may also be proportional to thecoefficient of friction that is specific to the materials used forconstruction of cable 36, clamps 630A, 630B, clamp guides 622A, 622B,interior portion 632 of device body 620, and/or conduit 13.

In the case where the tensile load is applied as an attempt to removecable 36 from conduit 13 by overcoming the resistive loads imparted tocable 36 by inhibitor 610, it can be appreciated removal will not occurunless the axial component of the tensile force is sufficient toovercome the resistive frictional load. For a given tensile forceapplied to cable 36, the probability of cable 36 being removed isreduced if the tensile force in cable 36 has a larger transversecomponent than if the tensile load is entirely axial. It is believedthat this is true because the axial component of the removal force isinversely proportional to the transverse component, and thus, anincrease in the transverse component will cause a decrease in the axialcomponent. When the axial component is reduced, the resistive frictionalload is more likely to inhibit the removal of the cable 36 from theinhibitor 610.

Another Exemplary Apparatus and System for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

In some embodiments of the present invention, an inhibitor may comprisea single clamp guide and a device body on a unitary piece. Asillustrated in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 23 and 24, inhibitor710B may comprise a single clamp guide 722B formed on body 720B anddisposed between first end 711B and second end 712B. In someembodiments, first end 711B and/or second end 712B may be configured toengage a conduit section 13. In some embodiments, one or both of firstend 711B and second end 712B may comprise an adaptive or couplingfeature (for example, and without limitation, an annular shoulder). Insome embodiments, one or both of first end 711B and second end 712B maybe configured to engage another inhibitor (for example, and withoutlimitation, inhibitor 710A). For example, and without limitation,inhibitor 710A may have a first end 711A with no coupling feature (forengaging a conduit, not shown) and a second end 712A with a couplingfeature (for engaging second inhibitor 710B). As such, multipleinhibitors can be directly coupled together without the need for anintermediary section of conduit. In some embodiments (and although notshown), first inhibitor 710A and second inhibitor 710B can be separatedby a section of conduit disposed between them. It is to be appreciatedthat the ends of the inhibitor can have multiple configurations inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that some systems in accordance with embodimentsof the present invention can comprise a plurality of inhibitors. In someembodiments, the distance between clamp 730A of inhibitor 710A and clamp730B of inhibitor 710B can be determined by the length of ends 712A and711B. For example, and without limitation, a system can be configuredwith (i) a distance of five inches between clamp 730A of inhibitor 710Aand second end 712A and (ii) a distance of four inches between clamp730B of inhibitor 710B and first end 711B. When two such inhibitors arejoined together, for example by connecting first end 711B to second end712A, the separation distance between the clamps will be nine inches. Itis to be appreciated that any number of inhibitors can be provided withany transverse separation distance in accordance with some embodimentsof the present invention.

In some embodiments, inhibitors 710A and 710B can be axially separatedrelative to a central axis of conduit 13. In some examples, and withoutlimitation, first inhibitor 710A can be coupled to second inhibitor 710Bwith a rotational phase difference of about forty five degrees. In otherexamples, and as shown, first inhibitor 710A and second inhibitor 710Bcan be configured with a rotational phase difference of one hundred andeighty degrees. In some embodiments, the determination of the rotationalangle between two or more coupled inhibitors can be made with referenceto the internal dimensions of the conduit and/or clamp guides and themaximum angular bend that may be tolerated by the cable. For example, asabove, and without limitation, if (i) the cable can be bent with amaximum angle of B degrees and (ii) the conduit has an internal diameterof D, then the transverse separation S and axial separation A of theinhibitors can be selected such that S is greater than or equal to Dtimes the sin squared function of A/2 divided the tangent function of B.Thus, in some examples, if cable 36 can tolerate a maximum angular bendof ten degrees and the inside diameter 732A of body 720A is six inches,clamps 730A and 730B of inhibitors 710A and 710B, respectively, can havetransverse separation of about five inches and a axial separation ofabout forty five degrees. It is to be appreciated, however, that anynumber of inhibitors may be separated by any transverse distance andaxial distance in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

In use, and similar to the embodiments as illustrated in FIGS. 21 and22, it can be seen that removal of cable 36 can be inhibited by thecompression thereof against inner portion 732A of device body 720A byclamp 630A and by compression against inner portion 732B of device body720B by clamp 730B. It is also to be appreciated that removal of cable36 can further be inhibited by increasing the coefficient of frictionbetween the cable 36 and clamps 730A, 730B and/or inner portions 732A,732B. For example, and without limitation, a layer of vulcanized rubbercan be affixed on a portion of clamp 730A and/or clamp 730B or on innersurfaces 632A and/or 632B. In other examples, clamp 730A and innersurface 732A can have a roughened surface while clamp 730B has aroughened surface. It is to be appreciated that there are many ways thatthe clamps and/or inner surface of the device body may be adapted inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is also to be appreciated that some embodiments of the presentinvention contemplate incorporating two or more types of inhibitorsand/or clamps. For example, and without limitation, some systems inaccordance with embodiments of the present invention can include a firstinhibitor (for example, and without limitation, inhibitor 710A of FIG.23) coupled to a second inhibitor (for example, and without limitation,inhibitor 410B of FIG. 17). In other examples, an inhibitor can includea first clamp and corresponding clamp guide (for example, and withoutlimitation, clamp 630A) and a second clamp and corresponding clamp guide(for example, and without limitation, clamp 130B) disposed on a unitarybody. It is to be appreciated that other combinations of inhibitors,clamps, and clamp guides are contemplated in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

Another Exemplary Retrofit Apparatus for Inhibiting the Removal of aCable from a Conduit

Referring now to the exemplary apparatus of FIG. 25, in some embodimentsinhibitor 810 can include a compression-type clamp 830 and a clamp guide822 having a number of subassembly components suitable forcircumscribing the conduit. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the clampguide can comprise a plurality of portions that may be secured togetherwith attachment devices. For example, and without limitation, clampguide 822 can have a first section 822′ and a second portion 822″. Thefirst and second portions may be configured to be secured together withattachment devices 827. In other examples, clamp guide 822 can includethree portions that can be secured together with snap-fit connections.It is to be appreciated that clamp guide 822 may comprise any number ofportions in a variety of geometries and configurations in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention. For example, and withoutlimitation, both first portion 822′ and second portion 822″ of clampguide 822 can be configured with a one hundred and eighty degree arc. Inother examples, first portion 822′ may be configured to have a twoninety degree arc sub-portions (not shown) and second portion 822″ canbe configured to have a one hundred and eighty degree arc. It is to beappreciated that any number and configuration of portions andsub-portions may be provided in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention. It is further to be appreciated that there are othermeans for attaching the plurality of clamp guide portions to each otherin accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

Similar to some embodiments (as illustrated in the example of FIG. 20),inhibitor 810 can comprise an actuator 841 for facilitating movement ofclamp 830. In some examples, and without limitation, actuator 841 can befixedly attached to clamp 830. In other examples, actuator 841 can beattached to clamp 830 by a snap fit connection or actuator 841 and clamp830 may form a unitary piece. In addition, in some embodiments, actuator841 may have securing features and a portion of clamp guide 822 may havecomplementary securing features. For example, and without limitation,actuator 841 may have threaded features and second section of clampguide 822″ may have complementary threaded features. In other examples,actuator 841 may have an integrated gear rack while clamp guide section822″ has a complementary ratchet. It is to be appreciated that othercombinations of securing features are contemplated in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, actuator 841 and a portion of the clamp guide 822may be configured in a screw-type configuration. For example, andwithout limitation, axial rotation of actuator 841 via head 848 mayproduce relative motion between actuator 841 and clamp guide portion822″. In some embodiments, head 848 may be a hexagonal fitting that canbe engaged by a socket or box-end wrench while in some embodiments, head848 may be a hexagonal socket that is engaged by an Allen-type wrench.In some embodiments, head 848 may be engaged by a drive shaft that isrotated by a motor or engine in order to transmit an actuation motion toactuator 841. It is to be appreciated that other similar configurationsof actuator 841, clamp guide 822, and head 848 are contemplated inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, actuator 841 and clamp guide 822 may be configuredin a gear rack-ratchet configuration. For example, and withoutlimitation, downward force may be imparted on head 848 thus causingactuator 841 to move relative to clamp guide portion 822″. In someembodiments, actuator 841 can be a hydraulically or pneumatically drivenpiston capable of imparting motion to clamp 830. In some embodiments,actuator 841 and clamp 830 may be configured as a cam moving withinextended portion 842. It is to be appreciated that other similarconfigurations of actuator 841, clamp guide 822, and head 848 arecontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 25, inhibitor 810 may alsocomprise a securing mechanism 838. In some embodiments, securingmechanism 838 may be configured to minimize movement of clamp 830. Forexample, and without limitation, securing mechanism 838 may be athreaded nut sized and configured to thread over threaded features ofactuator 841. In other examples, securing mechanism 838 may beconfigured with ratchet-type features to engage with gear rack featuresof actuator 841 and negate reverse movement thereof. By fasteningsecuring mechanism 838 against a portion of the clamp guide (forexample, portion 822″), tensile load may be provided through actuator841 and will also result in a locking effect to prevent motion ofactuator 841. It is to be appreciated that securing mechanism 838 maycomprise a separable element of inhibitor 810 or may integrated into oneor more elements of inhibitor 810. For example, and without limitation,securing mechanism 838 may be integrated into clamp guide portion 822″.In other examples, and corresponding to the example where actuator 841is a hydraulically driven piston, securing mechanism may be thehydraulic source itself. By applying pressure through associatedhydraulic lines, clamp 830 may be locked in place. It is also to beappreciated that other securing mechanisms are contemplated inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention. For example,and without limitation, securing mechanism 838 can be a cotter pin whichis engaged with a component of inhibitor 810 to resist motion ofactuator 841 and thus clamp 830.

In some embodiments, inhibitor 810 can also include securing mechanism837 for minimizing movement of clamp 830. For example, and withoutlimitation, securing mechanism 837 can be a roll-pin associated withactuator 841 for resisting upward force resulting from the restrainingpressure between clamp 830 and portion 822′ of clamp guide 822. It is tobe appreciated that inhibitors in accordance with some embodiments ofthe present invention can include any combinations of securingmechanisms. For example, an inhibitor can include a securing mechanismfor minimizing downward movement and/or a securing mechanism forminimizing upward movement.

In use, a portion of conduit 13 carrying a cable 36 may be partially orfully cut to form an opening, the opening having a width sufficient forreceiving clamp 830 therein. It is to be appreciated that in someretrofit applications, conduit 13 can be fully or partially cut. In someembodiments, and referring to the example where the conduit is partiallycut, clamp 830 should have a width that is not greater than the insidediameter of conduit 13 so that clamp 830 can be positioned therein. Insome embodiments, and referring to when the conduit is fully cut, clamp830 may have a width that is greater than the inside diameter of conduit13. In some embodiments, first portion 822′ and second portion 822″ ofclamp guide 822 may be configured with geometries suitable for forming atight fit around conduit 13. For example, and without limitation,conduit 13 may have an outside diameter of six inches and clamp guideportions 822′ and 822″ may be configured such that when they are securedtogether with attachment devices 827, an opening having a diameter ofsix inches is formed. In some embodiments, clamp guide 822 may alsoinclude a seal (not shown) configured to form a tight seal with conduit13. In some embodiments, pipe glue or another adhesive can be placed atthe interface between clamp guide portions 822′, 822″ and conduit 13 forforming a tight connection. In some embodiments, the internal size ofthe opening in clamp guide 822 may be configured to be slightly largerthan the outside diameter of the conduit such that, when used incombination with a seal or some other type of deformable seal, a tightconnection is formed. It is to be appreciated that other sized clampguide portions may be used for other sized conduit sections inaccordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that inhibitors such as illustrated in theexample of FIG. 25 are preferred for some retrofit applications.Referring back to FIG. 15, it can be seen that some inhibitors may beconfigured to secure cable 36 by the application of an upward “pulling”force on the clamp 330 in a direction radially-outward from a centralaxis of a section of conduit 13 and towards the securing mechanism. Thismay result in cable 36 being pressed between a portion of clamp 330 andclamp guide portion 322″. In contrast, an exemplary inhibitor asillustrated in the example of FIG. 25, may be configured to secure cable36 by the application of a downward “pushing” force on clamp 830 viaactuator 841 away from the securing mechanism. Thus, it should beappreciated that in the exemplary retrofit inhibitor as illustrated inFIG. 25, clamp 830 may not need to be “fished” around cable 36.

Another Exemplary Apparatus for Inhibiting the Removal of a Cable from aConduit

As above, in some embodiments, the inhibitor may include a clampcomprising a flexible material with a high tensile strength. In someexamples, without limitation, and as illustrated in the examples ofFIGS. 26 and 27, inhibitor 910A may include clamp 930A comprising azip-tie strap. In some other embodiments, and as illustrated in theexamples of FIGS. 28-36, the clamp may include a flexible material witha high tensile strength and further include one or more rigid portionsfor engaging with the clamp guide.

Referring particularly to FIG. 28, in some embodiments, inhibitor 1010may include a clamp guide 1022 with a first and second end, each forengaging a section of conduit (not shown) or a coupler (not shown) in anopening therein. In some embodiments, mechanism 1035 may be fixedlyattached to clamp guide 1022. In some embodiments, inhibitor 1010 mayalso include a seal 1033. In some examples, and without limitation,mechanism 1035 and seal 1033 may have holes for permitting passage ofattachment devices 1027. It is to be appreciated that mechanism 1035and/or seal 1033 may function provide protection from the elements andsurrounding environment. In some embodiments, attachment devices 1027may have threaded ends and clamp guide 1022 may have appropriatelypositioned and sized threaded holes for receiving attachment devices1027. In some embodiments, attachment devices 1027 and holes in clampguide 1022 may form a snap-fit connection. However, it is to beappreciated that other means of attaching mechanism 1035 to clamp guide1022 are contemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

As illustrated, and without limitation, clamp 1030 may include aflexible portion 1031 and a rigid portion 1038. For example, and withoutlimitation, clamp 1030 may include a flexible portion 1031 such as anylon strap and a rigid portion 1038 which may be formed of the samematerial as the flexible portion 1031. In other examples, flexibleportion 1031 may comprise a steel or metallic belt and rigid portion1038 may comprise a metallic body. However, it is to be appreciated thatthe clamp may comprise other materials in accordance with embodiments ofthe present invention. It is further to be appreciated that the flexibleportion may comprise a first material and the rigid portion may comprisea second material. For example, and without limitation, the flexibleportion may comprise hemp and the rigid portion may comprise moldableplastic.

Referring to the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 29-30, in someembodiments, clamp guide 1222 may have an slot for receiving flexibleportion 1231 of the clamp and a cavity for receiving rigid portion 1238of the clamp. In some examples, and without limitation, rigid portion1238 may have a rectangular, circular, oval, oblong, triangular,star-shape, or any other shape, and clamp guide 1222 may have acomplementary-shaped cavity therein. It is to be appreciated that theshape and dimensions of rigid portion 1238 and of the cavity formed inclamp guide 1222 should be selected so as to prevent rigid portion 1238from dislocating when a sufficient removal force is applied to cable 36.

In some embodiments, rigid portion 1238 may have a length that is aboutequal to an inside diameter of the conduit which is engaged to clampguide 1222. However, it is to be appreciated that in accordance withsome embodiments of the present invention, rigid portion 1238 of theclamp may have a length that is greater than or less than the insidediameter of the conduit. In some embodiments, the cavity in clamp guide1222 for receiving rigid portion 1238 of the clamp can be formed suchthat when properly seated, rigid portion 1238 is centered (as shown,centered vertically) with respect to the conduit.

In some embodiments, rigid portion 1238 of the clamp may have a surfacewhich is tangential with an inside diameter of the conduit and/or aninner portion of the clamp guide. For example, the rigid portion of theclamp may be offset from a central axis of the conduit by an amountequal to the inside radius of the conduit. However, as illustrated inthe examples of FIGS. 29-10, and without limitation, rigid portion 1238of the clamp may be set back such that, when cable 36 is secured againstthe inside portion of the conduit and or the inside portion of the clampguide, it does not come into contact with rigid portion 1238. In someother embodiments, as illustrated in the examples of FIGS. 31-32, andwithout limitation, rigid portion 1338 of the clamp may protrudeslightly inward towards the central axis of the conduit such that cable36, when secured, additionally is brought into compression with asurface of rigid portion 1338. It is to be appreciated that by tightlycompressing cable 36 between flexible portion 1331 and rigid portion1338 of the clamp, additional restraining force can be provided.

In some embodiments, the clamp may include one or more lockingmechanisms for forming a tight frictional connection between the cableand the flexible portion of the clamp. Referring now to the example ofFIG. 33, and without limitation, clamp 1430 may comprise a flexibleportion 1431 and a rigid portion 1438. In some examples, and withoutlimitation, clamp 1430 may comprise a single assembly wherein flexibleportion 1431 and rigid portion 1430 are a unitary piece. In otherexamples, flexible portion 1431 may be separate from, but bonded to,rigid portion 1438. In some examples, and without limitation, flexibleportion 1431 may comprise an integrated gear rack and locking mechanism1437A may comprise a ratchet. In some examples, clamp 1430 may comprisea plurality of locking mechanisms 1437A, 1437B, 1437C, each for engagingwith flexible portion 1431. In some embodiments, and without limitation,the locking mechanism(s) may be formed in or on the rigid portion of theclamp. For example, and without limitation, locking mechanism 1437A,1437B, 1437C may be part of rigid portion 1438. However, in someembodiments, as illustrated in the exemplary clamp of FIG. 34, andwithout limitation, locking mechanism 1537 may be separable from rigidportion 1538. For example, clamp 1530 may comprise a zip-tie having aflexible portion 1531 with an integrated gear rack, a locking mechanism1537 integrated onto one end of the flexible portion 1531, and a rigidportion 1538 with a cavity through which a portion of the flexibleportion 1531 may pass.

It is to be appreciated, however, that other types of clamps arecontemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention. For example, and without limitation, the clamp may be ascrew-type clamp comprising a flexible band with a thread pattern cuttherein and a rigid worm-drive screw. In other examples, and withoutlimitation, the clamp may be a wire-type clamp comprising a flexiblewire portion with a rigid captive nut/screw assembly.

Referring back to the exemplary illustration of FIG. 28, in someexamples, and without limitation, clamp 1030 may be formed into a largeloop by passing one end of flexible portion 1031 through rigid portion1038. Clamp 1030 may thereafter be placed into clamp guide 1022 suchthat rigid portion 1038 occupies the cavity formed in clamp guide 1022and the loop formed by flexible portion 1031 substantially extends theentire inside diameter of the inside portion of clamp guide 1022. Thecable (not shown) can then be fed down the conduit, through clamp guide1022, and through the inside area of the loop formed in flexiblematerial 1031. The end of flexible portion 1031 can then be pulledtight, thus securing the cable against one of the group consisting ofthe inside portion of the clamp guide, the inside portion of theconduit, and combinations thereof.

In some other embodiments, clamp 1030 can secure a cable that hasalready been positioned through clamp guide. For example, and withoutlimitation, a retrofit application can include initially placing rigidportion 1038 of the clamp into the cavity formed in the recess of clampguide 1022. An end of flexible portion 1031 can be fished down throughclamp guide 1022, around the cable, and back up through rigid portion1038. Thereafter, the end of flexible portion 1031 can be pulled tight,securing the cable.

It is to be appreciated that in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention, any of the previously identified embodiments(including but not limited to the multiple inhibitor systems, theunibody inhibitor systems, the transversely and axially separatedinhibitors, the retrofit embodiment, etc.), may be adapted to substitutea clamp having both flexible and rigid portions. For example, andwithout limitation, clamp guide 1022 can comprise multiple portions(similar to the multiple portions 322′ and 322″ of clamp guide 322 asillustrated in the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 13 to 15) forretrofit-type applications.

In other examples, and without limitation, an inhibitor may comprise aplurality of clamp guides and a device body disposed on a unitary piece.Referring now to the exemplary illustrations of FIGS. 35-36, inhibitor1110 can have a first end 1111 for engaging a first section of conduit(not shown) and a second end 1112 for engaging a second section ofconduit 13. In some embodiments, first end 1111 and or second end 1112can be configured to engage a second inhibitor (not shown) and/or acoupling feature. For example, and without limitation, second end 1112may have a coupling feature for coupling with conduit 13. In someembodiments, both first end 1111 and second end 1112 can have suchcoupling features. In some embodiments, neither first end 1111 norsecond end 1112 can have such coupling features.

Clamps 1130A, 1130B may be disposed within clamp guides 1122A, 1122B,respectively, and configured to press cable 36 against an inner surface1132 of device body 1120. In some embodiments, clamp guides 1122A, 1122Band/or body 1120 may be formed of a metal or polymer with relativelyhigh stiffness. In some examples, and without limitation, body 1120 andclamp guides 1122A, 1122B may comprise moldable plastic. In otherexamples, they may both comprise cast iron. In some embodiments, clampguides 1122A, 1122B and body 1120 may be formed at the same time and ofthe same material. For example, and without limitation, clamp guides1122 and body 1120 of inhibitor 1110 may be formed by injection molding.In some embodiments, clamp guides 1122A, 1122B and body 1120 may beformed of different materials. For example, and without limitation,clamp guides 1122A, 1122B may be formed of tempered steel and body 1120may be formed of cast iron. In those examples, clamp guides 1122A, 1122Bmay be welded or otherwise fixedly attached to device body 1120. It isto be appreciated that clamp guides 1122A, 1122B may also be pressed,cast, or glued to device body 1120. It is also to be appreciated that avariety of materials and combinations thereof may be used to form thecomponents of the inhibitor in accordance with some embodiments of thepresent invention.

As shown in the exemplary illustrations, inhibitor 1110 can have a firstclamp guide 1122A (and associated clamp 1130A) and a transverselyseparated second clamp guide 1122B (and associated clamp 1130B) forinhibiting removal of cable 36 from conduit 13. In some embodiments, theplurality of clamp guides may have the same axial configuration relativeto a central axis of the sections of conduit. In some embodiments, theplurality of clamp guides may be axially separated relative to a centralaxis of a conduit section. As illustrated, and without limitation, theclamp guides 1122A and 1122B may be configured to be about one hundredand eighty degrees out of phase with each other. For example, inhibitor1110 can include first clamp 1130A and second clamp 1130B configured tocompress cable 36 at locations which are one hundred and eighty degreesout of phase.

It is further to be appreciated that, in some embodiments, theseparation distance (or transverse separation) and rotational phase (oraxial separation) of the clamp guides may be determined with referenceto the maximum permissible angular displacement of cable 36, theinterior dimensions of the clamp guides and/or the interior dimensionsof the body. In some examples, and without limitation, the clamp guidesmay be separated by a distance of ten inches and one hundred and eightydegrees out of phase from each other. In other examples, and withoutlimitation, three clamp guides can be separated by a distance of threeinches and one hundred and twenty degrees out of phase from each other.It is to be appreciated that any number of inhibitors may be separatedby any transverse distance and axial distance in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

In some embodiments, clamps 1130A, 1130B and inner surface 1132 ofdevice body 120 can be configured with an increased coefficient offriction. For example, and without limitation, a layer of vulcanizedrubber can be affixed on an inside surface of flexible portion 1131A,1131B, on an inside surface of rigid portion 1138A, 1138B, and/or oninner surface 1132. In other examples, the clamps or inner surface mayhave a roughened surface. It is to be appreciated that there are manyways that the clamps and/or inner surface of the device body may beadapted in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

In use, it can be seen that removal of cable 36 can be inhibited by thecompression thereof against inner portion 1132 of device body 1120 byclamps 1130A, 1130B. By pulling the flexible portions of clamps 1130A,1130B tightly through the rigid portions, and engaging them withcorresponding securing mechanism, it is to be appreciated that cable 36will be pulled tightly into friction compression with inside portions ofthe clamp guides and/or conduit. It is further to be appreciated thatany number of clamp guides (and thus clamps), with any axial separation,can be provided on a single unitary housing in accordance with someembodiments of the present invention.

As illustrated, cable 36 may see multiple forces when a tensile load(for example, a removal force) is applied to it. Taking a central axisof the sections of conduit 13 as a frame of reference, the appliedtensile load may have (i) a vector generally in the direction of thecentral axis and (ii) a vector generally transverse to that axis. Inaddition, there may be a normal load applied to cable 36 between clamp1130A and a portion 1132 of clamp guide. In reaction, there can be aresistive frictional load applied to cable 36 that will have adirectional vector generally parallel and opposite to the axialcomponent of the tensile load applied to cable 36. The resistivefrictional load may also be proportional to the coefficient of frictionthat is specific to the materials used for construction of cable 36,clamps 1130A, 1130B, clamp guides 1122A, 1122B, interior portion 1132 ofdevice body 1120, and/or conduit 13.

In the case where the tensile load is applied as an attempt to removecable 36 from conduit 13 by overcoming the resistive loads imparted tocable 36 by inhibitor 1110, it can be appreciated removal will not occurunless the axial component of the tensile force is sufficient toovercome the resistive frictional load. For a given tensile forceapplied to cable 36, the probability of cable 36 being removed isreduced if the tensile force in cable 36 has a larger transversecomponent than if the tensile load is entirely axial. It is believedthat this is true because the axial component of the removal force isinversely proportional to the transverse component, and thus, anincrease in the transverse component will cause a decrease in the axialcomponent. When the axial component is reduced, the resistive frictionalload is more likely to inhibit the removal of the cable 36 from theinhibitor 1110.

An Exemplary Method of Inhibiting the Removal of a Cable from a Conduit

In some embodiments, a method of inhibiting the removal of a cable caninclude causing a clamp that is at least partially enclosed within aclamp guide to compress the cable against an inner surface of the clampguide and/or conduit.

For example, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 1-15, and without limitation, an inhibitor caninclude a rigid bolt type clamp and a securing mechanism. The securingmechanism can be rotated with respect to a protruding end of a clamp,thereby causing the clamp to move radially in the direction of thesecuring mechanism. The rotation of the securing mechanism can continueuntil the cable is compressed between (i) a portion of the clamp and(ii) a portion of the inhibiting device, a portion of the clamp guide,and/or a portion of the conduit.

In other examples, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 16-18, and without limitation, an inhibitor caninclude a flexible ratchet type clamp and a securing mechanism. A usercan secure the cable by rotating a key associated with the securingmechanism, thereby causing a clamp (attached on one end of the key) tomove in the direction of the securing mechanism. The rotation of the keycan continue until the cable is compressed between (i) a portion of theclamp and (ii) a portion of the inhibiting device, a portion of theclamp guide, and/or a portion of the conduit.

In other examples, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 26-27, and without limitation, an inhibitor caninclude a zip-tie style clamp having a flexible portion with anintegrated gear rack and an integrated ratchet or other similar devicefor negating reverse movement of the integrated gear rack. A user cansecure the cable by pulling one end of the integrated gear rack throughthe integrated ratchet, thereby causing the cable to be pulled in thedirection towards the ratchet. The user can pull the end of theintegrated gear rack until the cable is compressed between (i) a portionof the clamp and (ii) a portion of the inhibiting device, a portion ofthe clamp guide, and/or a portion of the conduit.

In other examples, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 19-25, and without limitation, an inhibitor caninclude a compression type clamp and an actuator. A user can secure thecable by applying force to the actuator (which can be incident orrotational) thereby causing the clamp to move in the direction oppositeto the actuator. The force can continue to be applied to the actuatoruntil the cable is compressed between (i) a portion of the clamp and(ii) a portion of the inhibiting device, a portion of the clamp guide,and/or a portion of the conduit.

In some embodiments, a method of inhibiting the removal of a cable caninclude (i) engaging a first inhibiting device having a body, a clamp,and a securing mechanism to a conduit, (ii) moving the clamp so as tocompress the cable against an inner surface of the body and/or conduit,and (iii) causing the securing mechanism to prevent the clamp frommoving with respect to the body.

For example, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 1-12 and 16-24, and without limitation, a firstcable-carrying device can be attached to a first side of an inhibitingdevice. Similarly, a second portion of conduit can be attached to asecond side of the inhibiting device. In some examples, and withoutlimitation, the cable-carrying device can be a section of conduit. Inother examples, the cable-carrying device can be a coupler. In yet otherexamples, the cable-carrying device can be a second inhibiting device.In some examples, and without limitation, the user can engage thecable-carrying device to the inhibitor snap fit connection or a press,interference, or sliding fit. In some embodiments, a user can secure thecable-carrying device to the inhibitor by using a variety of mechanicalfasteners such as screws, bolts, hooks, loops, and rivets. In otherexamples, the user can also apply sealants or adhesives such as pipeglue or an O-ring to form a seal at the interface of the cable-carryingdevice and the inhibitor.

In some embodiments, the method can further include the step ofcompressing the cable by a plurality of clamps. For example, referringgenerally to the exemplary systems as illustrated in FIGS. 5-12, 15,17-18, and 22-25, and without limitation, the cable may be compressed bytwo or more clamps. In some examples, a user may connect a firstcable-carrying device to a first inhibiting device, connect a secondinhibiting device to the first via a second cable-carrying device, andconnect a third cable-carrying device to the second inhibiting device.

In some embodiments, the user can separate the clamps both axially andtransversely relative to a central axis of the cable-carrying devices.For example, and without limitation, a user can install a first and asecond clamp which are transversely separated by ten inches and axiallyseparated by an angle of one hundred and eighty degrees. In otherexamples, a user can install three clamps each of which are separated byfive inches and one hundred and twenty degrees. However, it is to beappreciated that any transverse and/or axial separation may be selectedin accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In someembodiments, the user can determine the angular separation with respectto the distance between the two inhibitors and the maximum permissibledeformation of the cable. The axial and transverse separation betweenthe two inhibitors in part determine the maximum tensile load (whenapplied during an attempted removal of the cable) that the system canwithstand.

In some embodiments, method can further include the step of increasingthe coefficient of friction of one of the group consisting of the clamp,the clamp guide, the conduit, and combinations thereof. For example, andwithout limitation, a user may apply a layer of vulcanized rubber toboth the clamp and the clamp guide. In other examples, the surface ofthe clamp or clamp guide can have a roughened surface or may have atacky substance such as natural or synthetic oil or adhesive appliedthereto. It is to be appreciated that other ways of increasing thecoefficient of friction to increase the effectiveness of the inhibitorare contemplated in accordance with some embodiments of the presentinvention.

An Exemplary Method of Retrofitting a Conduit to Include an Inhibitor

In some embodiments, an inhibiting device can have a clamp and a bodywith at least two portions, and a retrofitting method can include thesteps of: (i) forming an opening in a portion of the conduit, (ii)positioning the clamp through the opening and inside the conduit, (iii)positioning each portion of the body so as to partially circumscribe theconduit, and (iv) secure each portion of the body of the inhibitingdevice together.

For example, referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 13-15 and 25, and without limitation, an openingcan be formed in a section of conduit containing a cable. In someexamples the conduit can be fully cut while in other examples only aportion of the conduit needs be cut. It is to be appreciated that theopening must be of suitable dimensions for installing the clamp therein.For example, the cross section of the opening should be at least thesame dimensions as the cross section of the clamp to be installed therethrough.

In some embodiments, after the opening is created in the conduit, a usercan manipulate the clamp such that the cable is positioned inside theopening and between the clamp and a portion of the inhibiting device. Insome examples, and referring generally to the exemplary apparatuses asillustrated in FIGS. 13-15, and without limitation, the clamp mayinclude a rigid fastener with or without one or more extensions. In use,the user can “fish” the clamp around the cable so as to position thecable in an opening of the clamp (for example, located on an insideportion of the clamp). In some examples, and without limitation, a usercan fish the rigid fastener around the cable before attaching one ormore of the extensions. In other examples, a user can first attach oneor more of the extensions before fishing the clamp (including the rigidfastener and extensions) around the cable. In other examples, andreferring generally to the exemplary apparatus as illustrated in FIG.25, and without limitation, the clamp may include a compression typeclamp. In use, the user may not need to “fish” the clamp around thecable, but rather ensure that the cable and clamp are positioned suchthat when force is imparted on the clamp (via the actuator) it willcompress the cable between the clamp and a portion of the conduit. Inyet other examples, and referring generally to the exemplary apparatusas illustrated in FIGS. 26-36, the clamp may include a flexible portionwhich may “fished” around the cable before pulling it through a rigidportion and/or locking mechanism.

In some examples, and without limitation, the clamp guide may comprisetwo portions. In other examples, the clamp guide may comprise more thantwo portions. When it is desired to install the clamp guide around theconduit, a user can arrange the portions in a way such that, whenassembled, the clamp guide completely circumscribes the conduit andcompletely covers the formed opening. In some embodiments, the user canapply a seal or a sealant to the interface between the clamp guide andthe conduit to form an environmental barrier. However, it is to beappreciated that other type of securing means may be used in accordancewith some embodiments of the present invention.

In some examples, the clamp guide may be installed after the clamp hasbeen positioned inside the opening formed in the conduit. For example,referring generally to the exemplary apparatus as illustrated in FIG.25, and without limitation, after the clamp is positioned inside theopening of the conduit, the actuator can be positioned though a hole ina first portion of the clamp guide. In another example, referringgenerally to the exemplary apparatus as illustrated in FIGS. 13-15, andwithout limitation, after the clamp may be positioned in the conduitopening (and “fished” around the cable), one or more extended portionsof the clamp can be positioned through a slot in a first portion of theclamp guide. The first and second portions of the clamp guide may thenbe connected to each other. In some examples, and without limitation,the clamp guide portions can be attached to one another via attachmentdevices such as mechanical screws, bolts, or snap fit connectors.

In other examples, the clamp guide may be installed before the clamp hasbeen positioned inside the opening formed in the conduit. For example,referring generally to the exemplary embodiments as illustrated in FIGS.13-15, and without limitation, the entire clamp guide can be installedaround the conduit before the clamp is located in the opening. After theclamp guide has been installed, the clamp can be positioned through theslot in the clamp guide. If the cable is already located inside of theconduit, the user may need to “fish” the clamp around it. If the cablehas not already been positioned inside of the conduit, there may not bea need to “fish” the clamp.

As above, the user can then secure the cable by causing it to becompressed between a portion of the clamp and one or more portions ofthe clamp guide and conduit. In some examples, referring generally tothe exemplary apparatuses as illustrated in FIGS. 13-15, and withoutlimitation, a securing mechanism can be rotated with respect to aprotruding end of a clamp, thereby causing the clamp to move radially inthe direction of the securing mechanism. In other examples, referringgenerally to the exemplary apparatuses as illustrated in FIGS. 19-25,and without limitation, a user can secure the cable by applying force tothe actuator (which can be incident or rotational) thereby causing theclamp to move in the direction opposite to the actuator. In someexamples, and without limitation, the actuator and a portion of theclamp guide may have threaded features and the force may be applied byrotating a head on the actuator. In other examples, the actuator maycomprise a hydraulic piston and the force may be applied by applyinghydraulic pressure in the associated hydraulic lines.

In some embodiments, the user can install numerous inhibitors along asection of conduit. In some embodiments, the user can install twoinhibitors separated axially and transversely relative to a central axisof the conduit. For example, as illustrated in the exemplary systems asillustrated in FIGS. 15 and 25, two inhibitors may be installed along asection of conduit. In some embodiments, a user can install additionalinhibitors having the same axial orientation. In some embodiments, auser can install additional inhibitors having different axialorientations. For example, and without limitation, two inhibitors may beinstalled along a section of conduit, the inhibitors having a transverseseparation of five inches and an axial separation of sixty degrees.

CONCLUSION

Thus, the present invention provides efficient and economicalapparatuses, systems, and methods for inhibiting the removal of cablefrom conduit. In some embodiments, the inhibiting devices can includerigid fasteners, fabric, or compression type clamps. In someembodiments, the inhibiting devices can include unitary clamp guides ormultiple component clamp guides suitable for retrofit applications. Insome embodiments, a system can include a plurality of clamps which maybe transversely and/or axially separated.

It is to be understood that variations, permutations, and modificationsof the present invention may be made without departing from the scopethereof. As such, one or more features of some exemplary embodiments asdescribed above may be practiced in conjunction with some otherexemplary embodiments. For example, and without limitation, clamp 130Aand clamp guide 122A of the exemplary inhibitor 110 as illustrated inFIG. 10 can be substituted with clamp 430A and clamp guide 422A asillustrated in the exemplary ratchet and coil system of FIGS. 16-18. Inother examples, the clamp guide of the exemplary inhibitor asillustrated in FIG. 16 can be configured to have a number of subassemblycomponents similar to the subassembly components of the clamp guide asillustrated in the exemplary inhibitor of FIG. 13. In other examples, asystem can include both an inhibitor as illustrated in the example ofFIG. 1 and an inhibitor as illustrated in the example of FIG. 19. Inother examples, it is to be appreciated that any clamp style (forexample, and without limitation, the u-bolt, the fabric, and thecompression type clamps) may be practice in conjunction with anyinhibitor style (for example, and without limitation, the individualinhibitor, the multiple clamp inhibitor, and the retrofit inhibitor). Itis also to be understood that the present invention is not to be limitedby the specific embodiments disclosed herein or as illustrated in thereferenced drawings, but rather, is defined in accordance with theappended claims when read in light of the foregoing specification.

1. An apparatus for inhibiting the removal of a device axially disposedwithin a conduit, said apparatus comprising: a) a clamp guide engageablewith said conduit, said clamp guide having an opening for axiallyreceiving said device therethrough and a cavity adjacent to saidopening; b) a moveable clamp at least partially enclosed in said clampguide, wherein a portion of said clamp enclosed in said clamp guide ispositionable in said cavity to permit said device to be received throughsaid clamp guide opening and positionable in said clamp guide opening tofrictionally engage said device; and c) a securing mechanism forsecuring said clamp to said clamp guide.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein said clamp is capable of moving in a direction that is generallyperpendicular to a central axis of said conduit.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein said clamp is capable of frictionally compressing saiddevice at a location where an axis of movement of said clamp generallyintersects a vector running perpendicular from said central axis of saidconduit towards said securing mechanism.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein said clamp is capable of frictionally compressing said device ata location where an axis of movement of said clamp generally intersectsa vector running perpendicular from said central axis of said conduitaway from said securing mechanism.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinsaid clamp comprises a rigid fastener.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5,wherein said clamp further comprises one or more rigid extension pieces.7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said clamp comprises threadedfeatures and said securing mechanism comprises complementary threadedfeatures.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said clamp comprises aflexible material having a high tensile strength.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein at least a distal end of said clamp comprises adeformable material.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising anactuator engaged with said clamp and said securing mechanism.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein said clamp guide engages said conduitthough an adapter.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said clampguide comprises a plurality of portions, wherein each of said portionspartially circumscribes said conduit.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein said clamp guide comprises a first end for engaging a firstsection of said conduit and a second end for engaging a second sectionof said conduit.
 14. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising aplurality of clamp guides transversely and axially separated relative toa central axis of said conduit.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, whereinat least two of said plurality of clamp guides are axially separated byabout between 30 and 180 degrees.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, whereina first of said plurality of clamp guides has an end for engaging afirst section of conduit and a second of said plurality of clamp guideshas an end for engaging a second section of conduit.
 17. The apparatusof claim 1, further comprising anchoring features configured to engagesaid clamp in a fixed position with respect to a surrounding medium. 18.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said portion of said clamp enclosed insaid clamp guide comprises an opening for axially receiving said device.19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said opening in said clamp islarger than said opening in said clamp guide.
 20. The apparatus of claim1, wherein said device is compressed between said clamp and an innersurface of said clamp guide when said portion of said clamp ispositioned in said clamp guide opening.
 21. The apparatus of claim 20,wherein said inner surface has a surface with an increased coefficientof friction.
 22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said inner surfacehas a surface with one of the group consisting of a roughened material,vulcanized rubber, oil, an adhesive, and combinations thereof providedthereon.
 23. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said device is compressedbetween said clamp and an inner surface of said conduit when saidportion of said clamp is positioned in said clamp guide opening.
 24. Asystem for inhibiting the removal of a linear device axially disposedwithin a conduit, said system comprising: a) a first inhibiting meansengaged with a first section of said conduit; b) a second inhibitingmeans engaged with a second section of said conduit; and c) a couplingmeans engaged with said first inhibiting means and said secondinhibiting means, wherein each of said first and said second inhibitingmeans comprise an opening for axially receiving said devicetherethrough, a cavity adjacent to said opening, a clamp having aportion positionable in said cavity to permit said device to be receivedthrough said opening and positionable in said opening to frictionallyengage said device, and a securing mechanism for securing said clamp.25. The system of claim 24, wherein said first and said secondinhibiting means are transversely and axially separated relative to acentral axis of said conduit.
 26. The system of claim 25, wherein saidfirst and said second inhibiting means are axially separated by aboutbetween 30 and 180 degrees.
 27. The system of claim 25, wherein saidcoupling means comprises a third section of said conduit.
 28. The systemof claim 25, wherein said coupling means comprises an adapter.
 29. Thesystem of claim 28, wherein at least one of said first and said secondinhibiting means comprises said adapter.
 30. The system of claim 24,wherein said coupling means comprises a portion of each of said firstand said second inhibiting means.
 31. The system of claim 24, whereinsaid clamps are capable of moving in directions generally perpendicularto a central axis of said conduit.
 32. The system of claim 24, furthercomprising anchoring features configured to engage at least one of saidinhibiting means relative to the surrounding medium.
 33. The system ofclaim 24, wherein said device is compressed between at least one of saidclamps and one of the group consisting of an inner surface of said firstinhibiting means, an inner surface of said second inhibiting means, andcombinations thereof when said portion of said clamp is positioned insaid clamp guide opening.
 34. The system of claim 24, wherein saiddevice is compressed between at least one of said clamps and an innersurface of said coupling means when said portion of said clamp ispositioned in said clamp guide opening.
 35. The system of claim 24,wherein said device is compressed between at least one of said clampsand one of the group consisting of an inner surface of said firstsection of conduit, an inner surface of said second section of conduit,and combinations thereof when said portion of said clamp is positionedin said clamp guide opening.
 36. The system of claim 24, wherein atleast one of said clamps comprise a rigid fastener.
 37. The system ofclaim 24, wherein at least one of said clamps comprise a flexiblematerial having a high tensile strength.
 38. The system of claim 24,wherein at least one of said clamps comprise a distal end formed of adeformable material.
 39. A method of inhibiting the removal of a lineardevice in a conduit, comprising the steps of: a) engaging an inhibitingdevice to said conduit, said inhibiting device comprising a body, aclamp, and a securing mechanism, wherein said body has an opening foraxially receiving said linear device and a cavity adjacent to saidopening; b) positioning a portion of said clamp in said cavity; c)disposing said linear device through said opening; d) positioning saidportion of said clamp in said opening to frictionally engage said lineardevice; and e) causing said securing mechanism to prevent said clampfrom moving with respect to said body.
 40. The method of claim 39,wherein said clamp comprises a rigid fastener, said step of positioningsaid portion of said clamp in said opening comprising pulling said clampin a direction towards said securing mechanism.
 41. The method of claim39, wherein at least a portion of said clamp comprises a deformablematerial, said step of positioning said portion of said clamp in saidopening comprising pushing said clamp in a direction away from saidsecuring mechanism.
 42. The method of claim 39, wherein said step ofengaging said inhibiting device to said conduit comprises the steps of:a) forming at least a partial opening in a portion of said conduit, saidopening formed in said conduit having a dimension at least equal to adimension of said clamp; b) positioning said clamp through said openingformed in said conduit; c) positioning each of at least two portions ofsaid body so as to partially circumscribe said conduit; and d) securingeach of said portions of said body to each other such that said bodycompletely circumscribes said conduit and completely covers said openingformed in said conduit.
 43. The method of claim 39, wherein said clampcomprises a flexible material having a high tensile strength, said stepof positioning said portion of said clamp in said opening comprisingpulling said clamp in a direction towards said securing mechanism. 44.The method of claim 39, wherein said device is compressed between saidportion of said clamp and an inner surface of said body.
 45. The methodof claim 39, wherein said device is compressed between said portion ofsaid clamp and an inner surface of said conduit.
 46. An apparatus forpreventing the removal of a wire axially disposed in a housing, saidapparatus comprising a movable clamp at least partially enclosed in saidhousing and a lock to fix the position of said clamp with respect tosaid housing, wherein a portion of said clamp has a first position in acavity of said housing permitting said wire to be disposed in saidhousing and a second position in said housing for frictionallycompressing said wire against an inner surface of said housing.
 47. Anapparatus for restraining a wire disposed in a conduit, said apparatuscomprising: a) a housing with a first end for engaging with a firstsection of said conduit and a second end for engaging with a secondsection of said conduit, said housing having an opening for receivingsaid wire and a cavity adjacent to said opening; b) a U-bolt at leastpartially enclosed in said housing, said U-bolt having a bent portionand two extended portions, wherein said extended portions protrudethrough at least one opening in said housing; and c) at least two nutsfor attachment to said extended portions, wherein said wire may beaxially disposed in said housing when said bent portion of said U-boltis positioned in said cavity and frictionally compressed between saidbent portion of said U-bolt and said housing when said bent portion ofsaid U-bolt is positioned in said opening and when said nuts are securedon said extended portions.
 48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein saidU-Bolt further comprises a J-Bolt and at least one extension bolt. 49.An apparatus for restraining a wire disposed in a conduit, saidapparatus comprising: a) a housing with a first end for engaging with afirst section of said conduit and a second end for engaging with asecond section of said conduit; and b) a strap at least partiallyenclosed in said housing, said strap having a first end engaged with akey disposed within a lock, wherein said key comprises a gear rack andsaid lock comprises a ratchet corresponding to said gear rack, whereinsaid wire may be axially disposed in said housing and frictionallycompressed between said strap and said housing when said key is rotatedin said lock.
 50. An apparatus for restraining a wire disposed in aconduit, said apparatus comprising: a) a housing with a first end forengaging with a first section of said conduit and a second end forengaging with a second section of said conduit; b) a bolt having a firstend inside said housing and a second end outside of said housing,wherein said first end has a deformable member attached thereto; c) aroll pin engaged with said bolt at a location inside of said housing;and d) a lock nut engaged with said bolt at a location outside saidhousing, wherein said wire may be axially disposed in said housing andfrictionally compressed between said deformable member and said housingwhen said bolt is rotated with respect to said roll pin.
 51. Anapparatus for inhibiting the removal of a device axially disposed withina conduit, said apparatus comprising a clamp at least partially enclosedin a clamp guide, said clamp guide having an opening for axiallyreceiving said device therein, wherein said apparatus is capable offrictionally compressing said device between said clamp and an innersurface of one of the group consisting of said clamp guide, saidconduit, and combinations thereof, and wherein said clamp is capable ofbeing secured to said clamp guide by a securing mechanism, wherein saidclamp comprises a flexible material having a high tensile strength,wherein said clamp further comprises a rigid keyed portion and saidclamp guide comprises a slot for receiving said keyed portion of saidclamp therein.
 52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein said rigid keyedportion comprises said ratchet.
 53. An apparatus comprising a moveableclamp having a distal end enclosed in a housing for engaging a conduit,said housing having an opening and a cavity adjacent to said opening,said clamp having an extended position for permitting a device to bedisposed axially through said opening and a retracted position forengaging said device, wherein said distal end of said clamp ispositioned in said cavity when said clamp is in said extended position,and wherein said distal end of said clamp is positioned in said openingwhen said clamp is in said retracted position.
 54. The apparatus ofclaim 53, wherein said clamp comprises an opening for receiving saidaxially disposed device therethrough when said clamp is in said extendedposition.
 55. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein said distal end of saidclamp is capable of frictionally compressing said device against saidhousing when said clamp is in said refracted position.
 56. The apparatusof claim 54, wherein said distal end of said clamp is capable offrictionally compressing said device against said conduit when saidclamp is in said retracted position.
 57. An apparatus comprising amoveable clamp having a distal end enclosed in a housing for engaging aconduit, said housing having an opening and a cavity adjacent to saidopening, said clamp having a retracted position for permitting a deviceto be disposed axially through said opening and an extended position forengaging said device, wherein said distal end of said clamp ispositioned in said cavity when said clamp is in said retracted position,and wherein said distal end of said clamp is positioned in said openingwhen said clamp is in said extended position.
 58. The apparatus of claim57, wherein said distal end of said clamp is capable of frictionallycompressing said device against said housing when said clamp is in saidextended position.
 59. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein said distalend of said clamp is capable of frictionally compressing said deviceagainst said conduit when said clamp is in said extended position. 60.An apparatus for inhibiting the removal of an axially disposed devicecomprising: a) a housing for engaging a conduit, said housing having anopening for receiving said axially disposed device therethrough and acavity adjacent to said opening; b) a movable clamp at least partiallyenclosed in said housing, said clamp having a distal end forfrictionally compressing said axially disposed device, wherein saidclamp distal end is capable of being positioned in said housing cavityto permit said axially disposed device to be received through saidhousing opening; and c) a mechanism for securing the position of saidclamp with respect to said housing.
 61. An apparatus for inhibiting theremoval of an axially disposed device comprising: a) a housing forengaging a conduit, said housing having an opening for receiving saidaxially disposed device therethrough; b) a movable clamp with a distalend enclosed in said housing, said distal end having an opening forreceiving and frictionally compressing said axially disposed device,wherein said housing opening is not larger than said clamp distal endopening to permit said axially disposed device to be received throughsaid clamp distal end opening and said housing opening; and c) amechanism for securing the position of said clamp with respect to saidhousing.
 62. An apparatus for inhibiting the removal of an axiallydisposed device comprising: a) a housing for engaging a conduit, saidhousing having an opening for receiving said axially disposed devicetherethrough and a cavity adjacent to said opening; b) a movable clampwith a distal end enclosed in said housing, said distal end having aninner opening for receiving and frictionally compressing said axiallydisposed device, wherein said housing opening is not larger than saidclamp distal end opening, and wherein said clamp distal end is capableof being positioned in said housing cavity; and c) a mechanism forsecuring the position of said clamp with respect to said housing.
 63. Anapparatus for inhibiting the removal of a device axially disposed withina conduit, said apparatus comprising: a) a clamp guide engageable withsaid conduit, said clamp guide having an opening for axially receivingsaid device therethrough; b) a moveable clamp at least partiallyenclosed in a said clamp guide, said clamp comprising a distal end forengaging said device and having an opening for axially receiving saiddevice therethrough, wherein said opening of said clamp guide is notlarger than said opening of said clamp distal end; and c) a securingmechanism for securing said clamp to said clamp guide.
 64. The apparatusof claim 63, wherein said clamp comprises a rigid fastener.
 65. Theapparatus of claim 63, wherein said clamp comprises a flexible materialhaving a high tensile strength.
 66. An apparatus for preventing theremoval of a wire axially disposed in a housing, said apparatuscomprising a movable clamp at least partially enclosed in said housingand a lock to fix the position of said clamp with respect to saidhousing, wherein said housing has an opening for receiving said wire andwherein said clamp has an opening in a distal end thereof for receivingsaid wire, and wherein said housing opening is not smaller than saidclamp distal end opening.